What is the difference between Lodgment and Filing?

Lodgment and filing are different things.

A document is lodged when it is submitted to the court either in hard copy format or via the eCourts Portal. 

A document is filed when the Court formally accepts the document. 

Once the Court files your application you will be notified by email and the documents will appear on the court ePortal for viewing. They will be stamped with the court seal. 

The eLodging cut-off time is 4:00pm.

If a document is lodged before the cut-off time and accepted for filing, it will be treated as having been filed on the same day. If a document is lodged after the cut-off time and accepted for filing, it will be treated as having been filed on the next business day.

Serving documents on the Other Party

A document may not be served on the other party(s) until it has been formally accepted by the Court.

For more information about serving documents, read: How to serve divorce papers in Australia .

Published by:

Published by, Christine Weston
Founding Director and Creator of Divorce Resource
Australian Nationally Accredited Mediator and Divorce Coach

The information in this article is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice. You should seek the advice of a registered professional who will be able to appropriately assess your specific circumstances before offering their expert opinion.