The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) has changed the way that divorce hearings are conducted. Now that the new Webex technology has officially been rolled out after a successful pilot program, it’s important to know what to expect. Here’s what’s different and how it may impact your divorce proceeding.
Key takeaways
Webex allows parties to access their divorce hearing with an audio and video link.
Parties have two ways to find the Webex link to their divorce hearing.
Treat the virtual hearing with the same respect as an in-person court event.
An experienced family lawyer can help you prepare for an upcoming hearing.
What's changing from 31 August 2026
Webex is a new platform that allows parties to attend a divorce hearing through an audio and video link. Previously, parties could only join a hearing over the phone, which could cause difficulties with accessibility and other issues.
The introduction of Webex doesn’t change any other aspect of the divorce process. Divorce application requirements and the circumstances where you may need to attend the hearing remain unchanged. Situations where you may need to participate in the hearing include:
You indicated in your application for divorce that you wished to attend the hearing.
The respondent requested to attend the hearing where there are children under 18 involved.
The respondent filed a Response to Divorce opposing the application.
You are applying for substituted service or dispensation of service in your sole application because your spouse couldn’t be correctly served.
How to find your hearing link
There are two ways for you to find the link to join your hearing with Webex.
Daily court list
Go to the daily court list on the FCFCOA website. Choose the relevant court registry for your matter. Click on the Webex link that is displayed above the Deputy Registrar conducting the divorce hearing to be sent to the virtual courtroom.
Commonwealth Courts Portal
Log in to the Commonwealth Courts Portal. Navigate to the ‘Court Events and Orders’ section. Copy and paste the link for your hearing into your browser.
What's expected of you on the day
The FCFCOA is adopting the Webex app to make divorce hearings more user-friendly. While that makes it easier for parties to join their hearing from their home or other location, it’s important to respect the rules of the proceeding as an official court event. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Make sure you’re appropriately dressed to show respect to the Court. Hats and sunglasses should be removed.
Have any necessary court documents ready. This could include your marriage certificate and affidavits providing required evidence.
Speak to the Registrar, the respondent, and any solicitors present respectfully. Rude or aggressive language won’t be tolerated.
Find a quiet place where you will be uninterrupted for the duration of the hearing.
Coming unprepared or not conducting yourself correctly may cause your application to be dismissed. Hearings often only take a few minutes. The Registrar typically reviews the application to make sure you’ve met all of the legal criteria. This can include ensuring you have completed the mandatory 12-month separation period and meet residency requirements. Depending on the case, you may need to answer additional questions about your application.
If you have domestic violence concerns, you may be able to join the hearing over the phone instead, with your number obscured, for your protection from the other person. Once the hearing is completed and the Court decides to grant your divorce, the divorce order will come into effect one month and one day later.
If you have family violence concerns, there are resources available:
DVConnect womensline: 1800 811 811
DVConnect mensline: 1800 600 636
1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
If you’re in immediate danger, contact the police on 000.
If you have a hearing coming up
It can pay for applicants to have qualified legal representation to help prepare for a divorce hearing. Preparation generally involves matters such as:
Understanding whether your attendance is needed. Absence from a mandatory hearing can have legal consequences.
Checking the time and date of your hearing and being prepared to show up at least 15 minutes early.
Drafting affidavits for issues like separation under one roof or detailing the need for substituted service.
Determining the documents you may need to obtain for the Court.
Ensuring that you have a private place where you can join the hearing without disruption.
A family lawyer can explain the process and what to expect from the hearing. Supporting you to understand how to comply with court instructions can help make the hearing go smoothly.
Do you need assistance with a divorce application?
Bateys Law Firm works with clients across various family law matters. Are you pursuing a divorce or de facto separation? Contact us for a free consultation to explore how we can advise you on appropriate arrangements.
