Where do I file family law documents on the Gold Coast?

A common misconception is that all family law matters for Gold Coast residents are heard at the Southport courthouse. This is incorrect.

Important Notice for Family Law Litigants

The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) does not have a registry at Southport. All Gold Coast residents with federal family law matters (including divorce, property settlement after separation, and parenting orders) must file and attend the Brisbane Registry located at:

Harry Gibbs Commonwealth Law Courts Building 119 North Quay, Brisbane QLD 4000 Phone: 1300 352 000

Exceptions for Queensland State Courts

While almost all financial and parenting matters are federal and must go to Brisbane, some specific issues are handled by the Queensland state courts at Southport:

• Domestic Violence Orders (DVO): Applications for DVOs are made to the Southport Magistrates Court.
• Child Protection Matters: Child protection applications are commenced by the Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs in the Southport Childrens Court.

Remote Hearings and Video Link

Some minor family law hearings (such as simple directions hearings) may be conducted by telephone or video link from the Gold Coast for convenience. However, the Brisbane registry remains the relevant filing location and the venue for substantive hearings and trials.

Related Topics

• The Southport Litigant’s Handbook
• Gold Coast Property Settlement: A Step-by-Step Timeline
• Mediation vs Court: Which is Faster in QLD Family Law?
• Family Law FAQ
• Contact Bell & Senior