National ranking · Updated June 2026

117+ Best Family Lawyers in Australia 2026: Verified, Ranked

Independent 2026 ranking of 117 verified family lawyers across Australia. Sorted by credentials, transparent pricing and information depth. No paid placements.

Written by Compare Divorce Lawyers editorial team · Updated 11 June 2026 · 2 min read

Who are the best family lawyers in Australia?

The top-rated family lawyers in Australia for 2026 is Phillips Family Law, with BARRY.NILSSON. and HopgoodGanim Lawyers rounding out the top three. Best provider depends on your specific needs — location, budget, and scope — but all five in our ranking serve Australia with verified credentials and transparent pricing.

Key takeaways

  • #1 overall: Phillips Family Law.
  • All 117 ranked providers have verified credentials and transparent pricing.
  • Prices vary widely — always compare 3 quotes before committing.
  • Major cities (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane) have the deepest provider pools.
  • Regional Australia: expect slower response times but often lower prices.

The national top 117

#1

Phillips Family Law

Brisbane · Fixed-fee options on some matters, hourly thereafter; initial consultation available

Specialist family law firm in Brisbane CBD ranked First Tier in Doyle's Guide, with three Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialists.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm · 3 QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Brisbane CBD based (145 Ann St) · International family law capability · BFAs and prenuptial agreements · De facto and same-sex relationships

#2

BARRY.NILSSON.

Brisbane · Hourly rates; cost estimates provided at engagement

National law firm headquartered in Brisbane whose family law team is ranked First Tier in Doyle's Guide for both Brisbane and Australia.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm (Brisbane & national) · QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Brisbane CBD based (345 Queen St) · National multi-state practice · Property and complex financial matters · Parenting and children's matters

#3

HopgoodGanim Lawyers

Brisbane · Hourly rates; engagement-stage cost estimates

Full-service Brisbane firm whose family and relationship law team is ranked First Tier in Doyle's Guide and includes accredited specialists, mediators and arbitrators.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm · QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Nationally accredited mediator on team · Two registered family law arbitrators · Brisbane CBD based (360 Queen St) · Collaborative law trained lawyers

#4

Damien Greer Lawyers

Brisbane · Hourly rates; consultation arranged on enquiry

Exclusively family law firm in Brisbane's Riverside Centre with six Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialists, ranked by Doyle's Guide.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide recognised firm · 6 QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Practices exclusively in family law · Brisbane CBD based (123 Eagle St) · Collaborative law & family dispute resolution · International family law including child abduction

#5

Michael Lynch Family Lawyers

Brisbane · Fixed-fee options on defined services; hourly thereafter; initial consult available

One of Queensland's largest specialist family law practices, established 1996, Brisbane CBD based and recognised in Doyle's Guide 2024.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide recognised firm · QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists on team · Practices exclusively in family law · Brisbane CBD based (240 Queen St) · Established 1996 · 100+ years combined family law experience

#6

Stewart Family Law

Brisbane · Fixed-fee mediation bookings; hourly rates on litigated matters

Brisbane CBD family law firm directly opposite the Federal Circuit and Family Court, recognised by Doyle's Guide with QLS Accredited Specialists.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended firm · QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Opposite the Family Court (231 North Quay) · Online mediation booking · Collaborative law & arbitration · Parenting coordination services

#7

Daykin Family Law

Brisbane · Initial consult available; fixed-fee options and hourly rates

Boutique Fortitude Valley firm led by Accredited Specialist Shannon Daykin, recognised in Doyle's Guide as a leading Brisbane family law firm.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended firm · Director is QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist · Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner · Nationally Accredited Mediator · Brisbane metro based (Fortitude Valley) · Surrogacy and adoption work

#8

Hartley Family Law

Brisbane · Cost-conscious approach; hourly rates with estimates at engagement

Brisbane CBD family law firm led by Accredited Specialist Brett Hartley, recognised by Doyle's Guide, focused on resolving matters via mediation over litigation.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended firm · Director is QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist · 35+ years family law experience · Brisbane CBD based (168 Edward St) · Mediation-first approach · Complex and high-value property matters

#9

Oner Family Law

Brisbane · Initial consultation available; hourly rates

Boutique Brisbane CBD family law firm owned by Katrina Oner, a Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialist since 2005.

Highlights: QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist since 2005 · Boutique owner-run practice · Brisbane CBD based (193 North Quay) · Near the Family Court precinct · Divorce and property settlement · Parenting and child support matters

#10

The Law People

Brisbane · Initial consultation available; hourly rates with collaborative-law options

Brisbane CBD family law firm whose Principal Jill Johnstone is a Queensland Law Society Accredited Family Law Specialist.

Highlights: Principal is QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist · Collaborative practice trained · Brisbane CBD based (270 Adelaide St) · Property and financial settlements · Parenting and child support matters · BFAs and prenuptial agreements

#11

O'Sullivan Davies

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

A boutique Perth family law firm ranked First Tier in Doyle's Guide, handling divorce, property and parenting matters from St Georges Terrace.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · Divorce & separation · Property & financial settlement · Parenting & de facto · Prenuptial & financial agreements

#12

FMD Legal

Perth · Fixed-fee and hourly options; initial consultation available

Perth family law firm ranked First Tier in Doyle's Guide, led by Accredited Family Law Specialist Sam Fahey, based on Adelaide Terrace in the CBD.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm (WA 2025) · Accredited Family Law Specialist (Sam Fahey) · Perth CBD based · Divorce & property settlement · Parenting & de facto · Financial agreements

#13

Klimek & Wijay Family Lawyers

Perth · Fixed-fee options available; hourly rates thereafter

One of Perth's largest dedicated family law teams, with a Legal Practice Director and two Partners accredited as Specialists by the Law Society of WA.

Highlights: Law Society of WA Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · 50+ years combined experience · 95%+ of cases settled · Full family law service

#14

Carr & Co

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

Perth family law firm on The Esplanade ranked Second Tier in Doyle's Guide, handling divorce, property settlements, prenups, surrogacy and adoption.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · Divorce & child custody · Property settlements · Pre-nuptial agreements · Surrogacy & adoption

#15

Kerr Fels Divorce & Family Lawyers

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

A boutique Perth firm practising exclusively in family and divorce law, with four Law Society of WA Accredited Family Law Specialists on St Georges Terrace.

Highlights: 4 Accredited Family Law Specialists · Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · Family-law-only boutique · Complex property (trusts, business, farms) · Surrogacy & international child matters

#16

Kim Wilson & Co Family Lawyers

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; confidential initial consultation

A long-established Subiaco family-law-only firm with six Accredited Family Law Specialists, three Nationally Accredited Mediators and an Arbitrator.

Highlights: 6 Accredited Family Law Specialists · 3 Nationally Accredited Mediators + Arbitrator · Doyle's Guide Third Tier firm (WA 2025) · Subiaco based · Family-law-only boutique · Mediation & arbitration in-house

#17

Leach Legal

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

One of Perth's larger specialist family law groups on St Georges Terrace, ranked Third Tier in Doyle's Guide and covering the full family law spectrum.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Third Tier firm (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · Specialist family law focus · Divorce & property · De facto & BFAs · Surrogacy & appeals

#18

Richardson Legal

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

A West Perth family law firm led by Linda Richardson, ranked Second Tier (firm) and Preeminent (Linda) in Doyle's Guide, with a strong mediation focus.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (WA 2025) · Linda Richardson ranked Preeminent (WA 2025) · West Perth based · 20+ years' experience · Mediation & family dispute resolution · Full family law service

#19

Lavan

Perth · Hourly rates; full-service firm, initial consultation available

A major full-service Perth law firm whose family law team, led by Accredited Specialist Jorja Brady, has been Doyle's Guide-recognised since 2015.

Highlights: Accredited Family Law Specialist (Jorja Brady) · Jorja Brady ranked Preeminent (WA 2025) · Perth CBD based · Doyle's Guide recognised since 2015 · Complex property & high-value matters · Integrated tax/wills/commercial advice

#20

DS Family Law

Perth · Fixed-fee options and hourly rates; initial consultation available

A Doyle's Guide-recognised WA family law firm with two Accredited Family Law Specialists, based near the Family Court in the Perth CBD.

Highlights: 2 Accredited Family Law Specialists · Law Society of WA Quality Assured Practice · Doyle's Guide recognised · Perth CBD based · Mediation & arbitration · Surrogacy & adoption

#21

BBS Lawyers & Mediators

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Boutique Adelaide family law firm recognised by Doyle's Guide as a First Tier / Top Tier family law firm in South Australia.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm (SA) · Adelaide CBD (King William St) · Boutique family-law-only practice · In-house mediation · Complex / high-value property matters · Founded 2009

#22

Howe Jenkin Family Lawyers & Mediators

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Specialised Adelaide family law and mediation practice ranked First Tier by Doyle's Guide, focused on resolving matters without court where possible.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier firm (SA) · Adelaide CBD (Gawler Place) · Family-law-only practice · Mediation focused · Property, parenting and financial agreements

#23

David Burrell & Co

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Long-established Adelaide-metro family law firm whose solicitors include two Law Society of SA Accredited Specialists in Family Law, ranked Second Tier by Doyle's Guide.

Highlights: 2 Accredited Specialists in Family Law (LSSA) · Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (SA) · Walkerville (~10 min from CBD) · Complex Family Court matters · Property settlement and children's matters

#24

Jordan & Fowler Family Lawyers

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Adelaide family-law-only firm of barristers, solicitors and arbitrators ranked Second Tier by Doyle's Guide, led by one of the city's most senior practitioners.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Second Tier firm (SA) · Adelaide CBD (King William St) · Family-law-only practice · Mediation and arbitration (AIFLAM member) · 40+ years senior experience

#25

Andersons Solicitors

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Established mid-sized South Australian firm whose family law team is led by a Law Society of SA Accredited Specialist and ranked by Doyle's Guide.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Ryan Thomas, LSSA) · Doyle's Guide Third Tier firm (SA) · Adelaide CBD (Franklin St) · 55+ years operating · Complex matrimonial property

#26

Norman Waterhouse Lawyers

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Full-service Adelaide CBD firm with a Doyle's Guide-recognised family law team handling divorce, property, children's and international relocation matters.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Third Tier firm (SA) · Leading lawyer recognition (Jill Miller) · Adelaide CBD (King William St) · Hague Convention / international relocation · De facto and domestic partnerships

#27

Tindall Gask Bentley Lawyers

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Long-standing South Australian firm with a dedicated Adelaide CBD family law team offering mediation across the full range of family law matters.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended firm (SA) · Adelaide CBD (Light Square) · Family law mediation · Surrogacy & ART matters · Intervention orders / family violence

#28

Resolve Divorce

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Modern North Adelaide family law practice with multiple Law Society of SA Accredited Specialists and a strong collaborative / mediation focus.

Highlights: 3 Accredited Specialists in Family Law (LSSA) · Doyle's Guide Recommended firm (SA) · North Adelaide (Melbourne St) · Collaborative practice · Nationally Accredited Mediator on team · Donor & surrogacy matters

#29

Divorce Legal

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Adelaide-metro family law specialist practice led by a Law Society of SA Accredited Specialist, focused on resolving matters out of court.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Selina Nikoloudakis, LSSA) · Prospect (Adelaide metro) · Collaboratively trained practitioner · Out-of-court resolution focus · Property and parenting matters

#30

DBH Lawyers (Duncan Basheer Hannon)

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Established full-service Adelaide CBD firm whose family law team is headed by a Law Society of SA Accredited Specialist with 20+ years' experience.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Jane Fox, LSSA) · Doyle's Guide Recommended lawyer · Adelaide CBD (Wright St) · 20+ years family law experience · Full-service firm

#31

Swan Family Lawyers

Adelaide · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Adelaide CBD family-law-only practice with a collaborative, mediation-first approach across the full range of family law matters.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Christopher Swan, since 2008) · Adelaide CBD (Roper St) · Family-law-only practice · Collaborative practice / mediation · Binding financial agreements

#32

Evans Brandon Family Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Specialist family-law-only firm operating on the Gold Coast since the late 1990s, with three partners holding Queensland Law Society Accredited Specialist (Family Law) credentials.

Highlights: Family law exclusively · 3 QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Doyle's First Tier firm · On-site mediation rooms · Bundall (Gold Coast) office · Operating since 1998

#33

BGM Family Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Dedicated Gold Coast family law firm with a large specialist team including multiple QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists.

Highlights: 12-strong dedicated family law team · 5 QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Doyle's Preeminent & Leading lawyers · Alternative dispute resolution · Coomera (Gold Coast) office

#34

Keating Lehn Solicitors

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Boutique Gold Coast and Brisbane family law firm led by QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist Kate Keating, with its own mediation service.

Highlights: QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist (Kate Keating) · Doyle's First Tier firm 2025 · In-house KK Mediations service · Robina (Gold Coast) office · Gold Coast & Brisbane

#35

Frampton Legal

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Southport firm whose family law practice is led by long-standing QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist Suzanne Harrison, a founding member of Queensland Collaborative Law.

Highlights: Accredited Family Law Specialist since 1997 (Suzanne Harrison) · Doyle's Leading lawyer · Collaborative practice & mediation · Southport Central office · Founding member of QLD Collaborative Law

#36

Pullos Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Family-law specialist firm in Southport led by Accredited Family Law Specialist and dispute-resolution educator Cassandra Pullos.

Highlights: Accredited Family Law Specialist (Cassandra Pullos) · Doyle's Recommended lawyer · Mediation & collaborative practice leader · 40+ years' experience · Southport Central office

#37

Small Myers Hughes Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Established Southport law firm with a dedicated family and relationships team led by Doyle's-recommended director Michael Small.

Highlights: Dedicated family & relationships team · Doyle's Recommended lawyer (Michael Small) · Long-standing Gold Coast firm · Southport office · Full-service family law

#38

Quinn Family Law

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Family-law-only boutique in Bundall founded in 2018 by collaboratively-trained, Doyle's-recommended practitioner Clare Quinn.

Highlights: Family law exclusively · Doyle's Recommended lawyer (Clare Quinn) · Collaboratively trained practitioner · Bundall (Gold Coast) office · Recognised in Doyle's every year since inception

#39

Stone Group Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Gold Coast full-service firm in Southport whose family law practice is led by QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist Sally Southwood.

Highlights: QLS Accredited Family Law Specialist (Sally Southwood, 2005) · Doyle's Recommended lawyer · Negotiation & mediation first · Southport Central office · Practising family law since 1998

#40

Richardson Murray Family Law

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Boutique family-law-only practice in Broadbeach with QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists among its partners and a dedicated mediation centre.

Highlights: Family law exclusively · QLS Accredited Family Law Specialists · Doyle's Recommended lawyer (Anton Richardson) · Dedicated mediation centre · Broadbeach (Gold Coast) office

#41

McLaughlins Lawyers

Gold Coast · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Long-established Gold Coast firm in Bundall with a family law team led by accredited mediator and Doyle's-recommended lawyer Joelene Nel.

Highlights: Doyle's Recommended Family & Divorce firm · Accredited Mediator (Joelene Nel) · Collaboratively trained family team · 20+ years' family law experience · Bundall (Gold Coast) office

#42

Lamont Law

Gold Coast · Free initial consult; fixed-fee + hourly thereafter

Family law firm with a Surfers Paradise office, a team including Accredited Specialists in Family Law, and 30+ years' experience.

Highlights: Accredited Specialists in Family Law on team · Special Counsel-led · 30+ years' experience · Surfers Paradise (Gold Coast) office · Out-of-court / mediation focus

#43

DDCS Lawyers

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee options + hourly thereafter

Long-established Canberra family law specialist firm (Dobinson Davey Clifford Simpson) with lawyers practising exclusively in family law.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier family law firm (ACT) · Accredited Specialists in Family Law on team · Lawyers practising exclusively in family law · Accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner · Trained in Collaborative Practice · NewActon office, Canberra City

#44

Farrar Gesini Dunn

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee + hourly options

Specialist family law practice known for a negotiation- and mediation-first approach to separation, divorce and property settlement.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier family law firm (ACT) · Pre-eminent ranked lawyer (Adam Bak) · Mediation and arbitration offered · Collaborative practice and ADR focus · Dedicated Child & Family Specialist service · Canberra City (Rudd Street) office

#45

Robinson + McGuinness Family Law (R+M Law)

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee + hourly options

Boutique Canberra firm specialising in family law, divorce, property settlements and parenting, also serving Queanbeyan and Yass.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide First Tier family law firm (ACT) · Pre-eminent ranked lawyer (Sally McGuinness) · Boutique family-law-focused practice · Mediation offered · Serves Canberra, Queanbeyan & Yass · Deakin office

#46

Parker Coles Curtis

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee + hourly options

Specialist family and divorce law firm whose directors hold multiple Accredited Specialist qualifications in family law and dispute resolution.

Highlights: Multiple Accredited Specialists in Family Law · Director with dual accreditation (Family Law + Dispute Resolution) · Doyle's Guide ranked (Second Tier firm; pre-eminent parenting/custody) · Mediator & Arbitrator of the Year 2025 (Australian Law Awards) · Mediation and collaborative law offered · Level 9, 1 Hobart Place, Canberra City

#47

Foster Johnson Lawyers

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee + hourly options

Canberra family law firm focused on collaborative law, mediation and negotiation, with an Accredited Family Law Specialist partner.

Highlights: Accredited Family Law Specialist (Deborah Wilson, since 2013) · Doyle's Guide Second Tier family law firm (ACT) · Leading ranked lawyer (Averil Foster) · Collaborative law and mediation focus · Level 6, 28 University Avenue, Canberra City

#48

HCC Lawyers

Canberra · Initial consult, fixed-fee + hourly options

Canberra firm (Hijazi Curran Cameron) with a family law practice handling separation, divorce and parenting matters.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Third Tier family law firm (ACT) · Leading ranked lawyer (Stuart Cameron) · Law Society / Family Law accreditations displayed · Family law a core practice area · Level 8, 1 Hobart Place, Canberra City

#49

Neilan Stramandinoli Family Law (NS Family Law)

Canberra · Flat-fee initial consult; fixed-fee + hourly options

Boutique Canberra firm practising exclusively in family law, with an Accredited Specialist and decades of combined experience.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Anna Neilan) · Doyle's Guide ranked firm (2024-2026) · Leading ranked lawyer (Lucy Stramandinoli) · Practises exclusively in family law · ACT Law Society & Family Law Section members · 5 Farrell Place, Canberra City

#50

Yellow Legal

Canberra · Fixed-fee pricing; mediation and out-of-court focus

Affordable, fixed-fee Canberra family law firm focused on out-of-court solutions, mediation and divorce.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended firm and lawyer (Claudia Maclean) · Fixed-fee, transparent pricing model · Mediation and out-of-court solutions focus · Parenting, property and divorce services · Belconnen office

#51

Mullane & Lindsay Solicitors

Newcastle · Initial consult, then fixed-fee options and hourly thereafter

Long-established full-service Newcastle firm with a dedicated family law team, ranked Leading on Doyle's Guide 2026 for family and divorce law in the Newcastle/Hunter region.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Leading firm 2026 · Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Catherine Williams) · Newcastle CBD - Hunter Street · Nationally accredited mediator / FDRP on team · Property settlement & complex asset matters

#52

Orbell Family Lawyers

Newcastle · Fixed-fee options available; consult-based

Specialist family-law-only practice with a Newcastle office, ranked Leading on Doyle's Guide 2026 and with Accredited Family Law Specialists on the team.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Leading firm 2026 · Family law exclusively · Accredited Family Law Specialists · Nationally accredited mediators · 2 Dick Street, Newcastle West

#53

Gillard Family Lawyers

Newcastle · Initial consult, fixed-fee options and hourly thereafter

Newcastle family law practice led by Accredited Specialist Michelle Gillard, recommended by Doyle's Guide as a Leading family & divorce law firm 2023-2026.

Highlights: Director is Accredited Specialist in Family Law · Doyle's Guide Recommended firm 2026 · Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (s60I certificates) · Honeysuckle, Newcastle CBD · Male and female solicitors

#54

Stevens Family Law & Mediation

Newcastle · Consult-based; fixed-fee and mediation options

Family-law-focused Newcastle CBD practice led by Accredited Specialist and nationally accredited mediator Ashley Stevens, ranked Leading on Doyle's Guide 2026.

Highlights: Director is Accredited Specialist in Family Law · Doyle's Guide Leading lawyer 2026 · Nationally accredited mediator (AIFLAM member) · Level 4, 7 Newcomen Street, Newcastle CBD · Family law since 2007

#55

Hebblewhite Lawyers

Newcastle · Initial consult, fixed-fee options and hourly thereafter

Newcastle and Maitland family law firm recommended by Doyle's Guide, with an Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Jessica Fordham) on the team.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law on team · Doyle's Guide Recommended 2026 · 24 Bolton Street, Newcastle CBD · Offices in Newcastle and Maitland · Mediation and prenuptial agreements

#56

Rankin Ellison Lawyers

Newcastle · Consult-based; hourly with fixed-fee options on some matters

Established Newcastle and Sydney firm with a dedicated family law practice, recommended on Doyle's Guide 2026 through partner Troy Dobinson.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended lawyer 2026 (Troy Dobinson) · Level 1, 47 Bolton Street, Newcastle CBD · Near the Federal Circuit and Family Court · Family, commercial and insurance law · Newcastle and Sydney offices

#57

Kekeff & Associates Solicitors

Newcastle · Consult-based; fixed-fee options available

Newcastle CBD family law specialist practice led by Accredited Specialist Zora Kekeff, recommended on Doyle's Guide 2026 and located near the Family Law Courts.

Highlights: Principal is Accredited Specialist in Family Law · Doyle's Guide Recommended 2026 · Family Dispute Resolution Provider · 4th Floor, 16A Bolton Street, Newcastle CBD · Near the Newcastle Family Law Courts · 18+ years family law experience

#58

Boyd Olsen Lawyers

Newcastle · Consult-based; fixed-fee options available

Newcastle CBD family law practice led by Accredited Specialist Judith Olsen, recommended on Doyle's Guide 2026, with strong experience in complex children's and property matters.

Highlights: Principal is Accredited Specialist in Family Law · Doyle's Guide Recommended 2026 · Level 4, 57 Hunter Street, Newcastle CBD · 25+ years' family and property law experience · Independent Children's Lawyer (Legal Aid panel)

#59

Marr Family Lawyers

Wollongong · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Specialist Wollongong family law firm led by Kate Marr, a Law Society Accredited Specialist in Family Law, handling separation, property and parenting matters.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Kate Marr) · Doyle's Guide Leading firm 2025 · Wollongong CBD based (Crown St) · Second office in Kiama · Family law exclusive practice · Admitted 2008

#60

Mitchell Family Lawyers

Wollongong · Fixed-fee and hourly options; initial consult available

Wollongong-region family law practice founded by Doyle's-ranked Leading Lawyer Shae Mitchell, focused exclusively on Illawarra family law matters.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Leading Lawyer 2024-2026 (Shae Mitchell) · Doyle's Guide Leading firm 2025 · Corrimal (Wollongong metro) office · Collaborative family law practitioner · Illawarra-exclusive family law focus · Member, Australian Association of Collaborative Professionals

#61

Rossi Simicic Lawyers

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

All-female-partnered Wollongong firm recognised by Doyle's Guide as a Leading Family & Divorce Law firm, with over 40 years' collective family law experience.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Leading firm 2025 · Doyle's Guide Leading Lawyers (Luciana Rossi & Tiana Simicic) · Wollongong CBD based (Auburn St) · All-female partnered firm · 40+ years collective experience · Also wills, estates & criminal law

#62

DGB Lawyers

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Established Wollongong full-service firm whose family law partner Lorelle Longbottom is a nationally accredited mediator and Doyle's-ranked Leading Family Lawyer.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Leading Lawyer 2026 (Lorelle Longbottom) · Doyle's Guide Recommended Lawyer 2026 (Grace Prosperi) · Wollongong CBD based (Stewart St) · Nationally accredited mediator on staff · Trained collaborative lawyers · Surrogacy & independent children's representation

#63

Williams Family Law

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Wollongong-metro family law boutique led by Hayley Williams, ranked by Doyle's Guide as a Leading/Recommended Family & Divorce Lawyer for the region.

Highlights: Doyle's Guide Recommended Lawyer 2026 (Hayley Williams) · Doyle's Guide Recommended firm 2025 · Unanderra (Wollongong metro) office · Dedicated family law boutique · Local Illawarra practice

#64

South Coast Family Law Group

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Dedicated family law firm with Wollongong and Shellharbour offices whose directors Cassandra Garforth and Laura McCrohon are both Accredited Specialists in Family Law.

Highlights: Two Accredited Specialists in Family Law (directors) · Wollongong CBD based (Crown St) · Shellharbour office also · Full-service family law (BFAs, super splitting) · In-house mediation · Family-law-exclusive practice

#65

Hulse Family Law

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Family-law-only firm with Wollongong and Shoalhaven offices, led by Lana Hulse, a Law Society Accredited Specialist in Family Law.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Lana Hulse) · Wollongong CBD based (Market St) · Shoalhaven office also · Mediation & collaborative practice · Over a decade exclusive family law experience · Family-law-only firm

#66

Seacliff Family Law

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Family law practice with a Wollongong office, founded by Ashleigh Wisbey, an Accredited Specialist in Family Law with a Master of Applied Law (Family Law).

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (Ashleigh Wisbey) · Master of Applied Law (Family Law) · Wollongong CBD based (Kembla St) · 10+ years' experience · Also serves Sutherland Shire/Sydney · Family law focused

#67

Soden Legal

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Family law firm with a by-appointment Wollongong office whose principal is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and a former Registrar of the Family & Federal Circuit Courts.

Highlights: Accredited Specialist in Family Law (principal) · Former Family/Federal Circuit Court Registrar · Wollongong office (by appointment, Burelli St) · Binding Financial Agreements · Family dispute resolution/mediation · International parenting matters

#68

Kells the Lawyers

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Long-established Illawarra full-service firm whose family law team is led by a NSW Accredited Specialist in Family Law, with Peter Chodat ranked by Doyle's Guide.

Highlights: Family law team led by a NSW Accredited Specialist · Doyle's Guide Recommended Lawyer 2026 (Peter Chodat) · Best Lawyers in Australia listing (Family Law) · Wollongong CBD based (Auburn St) · Offices across the Illawarra · Collaborative law option

#69

Maguire & McInerney Lawyers

Wollongong · Initial consult available; fixed-fee and hourly options

Established Wollongong CBD full-service firm with a dedicated family law team that emphasises resolving matters through mediation and family dispute resolution.

Highlights: Wollongong CBD based (Keira St) · Mediation & family dispute resolution focus · Full-service local firm · De facto and spousal maintenance matters · Out-of-court resolution emphasis

#70

Wallace Wilkinson & Webster

Hobart · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Long-established Hobart CBD firm whose family law team is the top-ranked family and divorce practice in Tasmania per Doyle's Guide.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (169 Liverpool St) · Doyle's Guide ranked family lawyers · 50+ years operating · Mediation and negotiation offered · Property, parenting and significant-relationship matters

#71

PWB Lawyers

Hobart · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Hobart firm dating back to 1936 that brands itself as family law specialists and is Doyle's Guide recommended for family and divorce law.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (57 Elizabeth St) · Family law focus since 1936 · Doyle's Guide recommended lawyers · Conciliation and mediation promoted · BFAs and family violence orders

#72

Dobson Mitchell Allport

Hobart · Hourly; fixed-fee for defined scopes

Major full-service Hobart firm with a Doyle's-ranked family and relationships team covering the full spread of family law matters.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (59 Harrington St) · Doyle's Guide ranked lawyers · Surrogacy and BFA capability · Pragmatic, litigation-avoidant approach · Full-service firm

#73

Butler McIntyre & Butler

Hobart · Hourly; fixed-fee for defined scopes

Established Hobart CBD firm whose family law partner is Doyle's-ranked and sits on the Federal Circuit and Family Court Independent Children's Lawyer panel.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (20 Murray St) · Doyle's Guide preeminent lawyer (2025) · Independent Children's Lawyer panel member · Six-strong family law team · Property, children's and financial agreements

#74

Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers

Hobart · Hourly; fixed-fee for defined scopes

Multi-office Tasmanian firm whose Hobart-based family law team is led by a Doyle's-ranked director with 25+ years in the area.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (99 Bathurst St) · Doyle's Guide ranked lawyer · Director with 25+ years family law · Mediation and pre-mediation advice · BFAs / pre-nuptial agreements

#75

Jacobs Family Law

Hobart · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Dedicated Hobart family-law-only practice led by a Doyle's-ranked director, focused entirely on separation and divorce matters.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (7 Campbell St) · Family-law-only firm · Doyle's Guide ranked director · Director with 18+ years in family law · Personal, compassionate approach

#76

TFR Lawyers (Tremayne Fay Rheinberger)

Hobart · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Hobart CBD firm with 50+ years' history and dedicated family law specialists covering married, de facto and same-sex matters.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (119 Macquarie St) · 50+ years operating · Specialist family lawyers on staff · De facto and same-sex couples · Family dispute resolution focus

#77

Tierney Law

Hobart · Fixed-fee options available; hourly thereafter

Southern-Tasmania firm with a central Hobart office offering a broad family law practice including parenting, divorce and de facto matters.

Highlights: Hobart CBD based (18 Elizabeth St) · Four southern-Tas offices · Property agreements and de facto · Family violence matters · Dispute resolution focus

#78

Coulter Legal

Geelong · Free 30-minute initial consultation; fixed-fee options and hourly thereafter

A large full-service Geelong firm whose family law team holds multiple Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Specialists and is ranked Preeminent in Doyle's Guide for regional Victoria.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (235 Ryrie St) · LIV Accredited Family Law Specialists · Doyle's Guide Preeminent (Regional VIC 2026) · Free 30-min initial consultation · Mediation / dispute resolution · BFAs & complex property

#79

Harwood Andrews

Geelong · Initial consultation by appointment; hourly with fixed-fee options for defined matters

An established Geelong commercial and private-client firm whose family law practice is led by Lisa Hunt, a Doyle's Guide Preeminent Victorian family lawyer and former Family Court Registrar.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (70 Gheringhap St) · Doyle's Guide Preeminent (Lisa Hunt) · Practice led by former Family Court Registrar · Multiple ranked practitioners · Complex property & financial matters

#80

Cahill Family Lawyers

Geelong · Initial consultation by appointment; hourly with fixed-fee options for defined matters

A dedicated Geelong family law firm led by Paul Cahill, an LIV Accredited Family Law Specialist since 1992, ranked Preeminent in Doyle's Guide for regional Victoria.

Highlights: Geelong West based (61 Pakington St) · LIV Accredited Specialist since 1992 (Paul Cahill) · Doyle's Guide Preeminent (Regional VIC 2026) · Family-law-only practice · Parenting & property focus

#81

Allison Rowe Family Lawyers

Geelong · Fixed-fee divorce and consent orders available; hourly for contested matters

A boutique, family-law-only Geelong practice founded by Allison Rowe, a Doyle's Guide Leading regional Victorian family lawyer, with an Accredited Specialist on the team.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (60 Moorabool St) · Family-law-only boutique · Doyle's Guide Leading (Allison Rowe) · Accredited Family Law Specialist on team · Fixed-fee divorce & consent orders · Mediation services

#82

Agar Singh Legal

Geelong · Initial consultation by appointment; fixed-fee options for defined matters

A boutique Geelong family law firm led by Satbir Singh, who practises exclusively in family and relationship law and is ranked in Doyle's Guide for regional Victoria.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (45 Gheringhap St) · Exclusively family & relationship law · Doyle's Guide ranked (Satbir Singh) · Separation, parenting & property · Financial agreements

#83

Wightons Lawyers

Geelong · 30-minute family law clinic appointments available; hourly thereafter

A long-established Geelong firm (operating since 1893) with a four-practitioner family law team and a dedicated weekly family law clinic.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (89 Myers St) · Established 1893 · Dedicated family law clinic · Four-practitioner family law team · Mediation & conciliation · Court appearances in Geelong & Melbourne

#84

Trapski Family Law

Geelong · Initial consultation by appointment; fixed-fee options for defined matters

A family-law-only firm in Newtown (Geelong metro) whose principal has been an LIV Accredited Family Law Specialist since 2013.

Highlights: Newtown / Geelong based (343 Pakington St) · Family-law-only practice · LIV Accredited Specialist since 2013 · Solicitor advocates in court · Operating since 2011

#85

Pearsons Lawyers

Geelong · Free 30-minute first appointment; fixed-fee options and hourly thereafter

A multi-office Victorian family law firm with a Geelong CBD office offering a free first appointment and mediation-focused dispute resolution.

Highlights: Geelong CBD based (200 Malop St) · Free 30-minute first appointment · Mediation & collaborative law · 35+ years' experience · De facto & LGBTIQ+ matters

#86

AFL Withnalls (Australian Family Lawyers)

Darwin · Free initial consult, fixed-fee options available

Darwin arm of national specialist firm Australian Family Lawyers (formerly Withnalls), led by Accredited Family Law Specialist Vanessa Farmer.

Highlights: Accredited Family Law Specialist (Vanessa Farmer) · Head of Family Law 25+ years · Darwin CBD, Harry Chan Ave · Free consultations + fixed fees · Family mediation / dispute resolution · Part of national family law firm

#87

Ward Keller

Darwin · Fixed fees for family law matters

Long-established full-service NT firm with a dedicated Darwin family law team offering fixed fees and alternative dispute resolution.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, Level 7/22 Mitchell St · Fixed fees for family law · Promotes mediation & arbitration · Offices across Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine, Alice Springs · Accepts NT Legal Aid referrals

#88

TGB Lawyers (Tindall Gask Bentley)

Darwin · Fixed-fee options; initial consult available

Multi-state firm with a Darwin family law team covering the full spectrum from divorce and property to surrogacy and financial agreements.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, 1/21 Cavenagh St · Family law mediation offered · De facto property division · Financial agreements / prenups · Surrogacy & ART · Multi-state firm (SA, WA, Qld, NT)

#89

Darwin Family Law

Darwin · Fixed-fee options available

Boutique Top End family law practice led by partners with decades of local NT experience, covering family, wills and criminal matters.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, 59 Smith St · Partners Julian Barry & Tessa Czislowski · Decades of Top End experience · Negotiation & mediation · Domestic violence matters · Family provision claims

#90

Jude Lawyers

Darwin · Fixed-fee options available

Darwin firm with a dedicated family law service covering divorce, property settlements, BFAs and parenting, with a focus on negotiated resolution.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, Ground Floor 9-11 Cavenagh St · Binding Financial Agreements · Property settlement focus · De facto relationships · Mediation-first approach · DVO/AVO assistance

#91

Maleys Barristers & Solicitors

Darwin · Fixed-fee options available

Established NT firm representing Territorians for 30+ years, with a family law team handling property settlement, parenting and divorce.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, 17 Cavenagh St · 30+ years serving the NT · Property settlement & child support · Divorce & separation · Domestic violence matters · Second office at Coolalinga

#92

Bowen Lawyers

Darwin · Fixed-fee options available

Darwin practice offering family law across divorce, property, parenting and de facto matters with a focus on legally binding agreements.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, 4 Manton St · Long local NT experience · De facto relationships · Financial / binding agreements · Mediation offered · Consent orders for parenting

#93

Grays Legal NT

Darwin · Fixed-fee options available

Darwin firm led by principal solicitor Thelma Gray offering family law including divorce, parenting and family property matters.

Highlights: Darwin CBD, 16/19 Smith Street Mall · Principal solicitor Thelma Gray · Divorce & separation · Family property settlement · Parenting matters · 19 years operating across NT/QLD/NSW

#94

Barkus Doolan Winning Family Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Barkus Doolan Winning Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 11 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 11 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#95

Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Doolan Wagner Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 4 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in St Leonards, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 4 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · St Leonards based

#96

Ramsden Family Law Sydney

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Ramsden Family Law Sydney is a family law firm with 7 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 7 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#97

Justice Family Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Justice Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 2 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 NSW Accredited Specialists · Mediation · Sydney CBD based

#98

Edwards Moloney Family Law

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Edwards Moloney Family Law is a family law firm with 4 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in property settlement, divorce, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 4 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#99

Unified Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Unified Lawyers is a family law firm with 3 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 NSW Accredited Specialists · Mediation · Sydney CBD based

#100

Sarah Bevan Family Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Sarah Bevan Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 2 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Surry Hills, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Surry Hills based

#101

Watts McCray Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Watts McCray Lawyers is a family law firm with 5 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 5 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#102

Marsdens Law Group Family Law

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Marsdens Law Group Family Law is a family law firm with 3 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Campbelltown, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · 50+ years · Campbelltown based

#103

Rafton Family Lawyers

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Rafton Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 3 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Parramatta, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Parramatta based

#104

The Norton Law Group

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

The Norton Law Group is a family law firm with 2 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 NSW Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#105

O'Sullivan Legal

Sydney · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

O'Sullivan Legal is a family law firm with 2 NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Sydney CBD, Sydney. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 NSW Accredited Specialists · Mediation · Collaborative law · Sydney CBD based

#106

Forte Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Forte Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 5 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in property settlement, divorce, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 5 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#107

Blackwood Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Blackwood Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 6 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 6 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#108

Pearsons Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Pearsons Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 3 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#109

Ramsden Lawyers Melbourne

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Ramsden Lawyers Melbourne is a family law firm with 2 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#110

Nicholes Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Nicholes Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 3 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#111

Rowan Skinner & Associates

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Rowan Skinner & Associates is a VIC Law Society Accredited Specialist family law firm based in Clifton Hill, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: VIC Accredited Specialist · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · 30+ years · Clifton Hill based

#112

Resolve Conflict Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Resolve Conflict Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 2 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 VIC Accredited Specialists · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#113

Glezer Lanteri & Associates

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Glezer Lanteri & Associates is a family law firm with 2 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Camberwell, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 VIC Accredited Specialists · Mediation · Camberwell based

#114

Mills Oakley Family Law

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Mills Oakley Family Law is a family law firm with 4 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in property settlement, divorce, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 4 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#115

Sage Family Lawyers

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Sage Family Lawyers is a family law firm with 3 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 3 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#116

Lighthouse Family Law

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Lighthouse Family Law is a family law firm with 2 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Melbourne CBD, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 VIC Accredited Specialists · Doyle's Guide listed · Mediation · Collaborative law · Melbourne CBD based

#117

Tonkin Legal Group

Melbourne · Free initial consult, hourly thereafter

Tonkin Legal Group is a family law firm with 2 VIC Law Society Accredited Specialists based in Greensborough, Melbourne. Specialises in divorce, property settlement, parenting / child custody.

Highlights: 2 VIC Accredited Specialists · Mediation · 60+ years · Greensborough based

How we rank

We use a transparent weighted scoring model based on objective, publicly verifiable signals — we do not collect or display first-party star reviews:

  • 40% credentials and regulator verification
  • 25% price transparency and itemised quoting
  • 20% service coverage (geography, availability, specialisations)
  • 10% information completeness
  • 5% complaint history (Fair Trading, industry ombudsman)

We do not accept payment to feature or rank providers. Where referral fees apply, they are fully disclosed in our footer and do not affect ranking position.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Who are the best family lawyers in Australia?

The top-rated family lawyers in Australia for 2026 is Phillips Family Law, with BARRY.NILSSON. and HopgoodGanim Lawyers rounding out the top three. Best provider depends on your specific needs — location, budget, and scope — but all five in our ranking serve Australia with verified credentials and transparent pricing.

How long do I have to wait to get divorced in Australia?

You must be separated for at least 12 months before applying for divorce in Australia. The 12-month period starts from the date you and your spouse decided to separate, even if you continue living in the same house ("separated under one roof"). After 12 months, you can apply via the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Once granted, the divorce becomes final 1 month and 1 day later. The total timeline from separation to divorce: minimum 13 months.

How much does a divorce cost in Australia?

The court filing fee for divorce in 2026 is $1,060 (or $355 reduced fee if eligible for hardship). Legal fees are separate. A simple uncontested divorce with a lawyer: $1,000-$3,000. The expensive part is usually property settlement and parenting matters, not the divorce itself. Property settlement: $5,000 (mediated) to $80,000+ (contested). Parenting disputes that go to trial: $50,000-$200,000+. Most lawyers offer a free or low-cost initial consultation to give realistic cost estimates.

Will I have to go to court?

Most family law matters in Australia settle without going to court. The legal system actively encourages mediation, family dispute resolution, and negotiation. Even when court applications are filed, the majority settle before trial through court-supervised mediation. Going to a final hearing is uncommon and expensive. A good family lawyer aims for negotiated settlement, with court as a last resort. If you can co-operate with your ex, look for collaborative lawyers or mediation specialists.

Can my de facto partner claim half my house?

In Australia, de facto couples have substantially the same property rights as married couples after 2+ years of cohabitation, or if there's a child of the relationship, or if there's been a significant contribution. The Family Law Act 1975 was extended in 2009 to cover de facto couples. The same 4-step property settlement process applies. Time limits are stricter for de facto couples — claims must generally be filed within 2 years of separation (versus 12 months from divorce for married couples).

How is custody decided in Australia?

Australia doesn't use the term "custody" — the law uses "parenting orders" and "parental responsibility". The starting point under the Family Law Act is "equal shared parental responsibility" (joint decision-making) and the court considers whether equal time or substantial and significant time is in the child's best interests. The "best interests of the child" considers safety, the child's views (depending on age), the relationship with each parent, and practical considerations (school, work). Most matters resolve via parenting plans or consent orders without court involvement.