Deceased estate administration timeline
Most deceased estates take 6-12 months from death to final distribution. Here's what happens at each stage.
A typical Australian deceased estate takes 6 to 12 months to fully administer. Simple estates can be faster (3-6 months). Complex estates – contested wills, international assets, business interests – can take 18 months or longer.
Months 0-2: Post-death administration
Registration, funeral, will location, initial notifications. Executor identifies assets and liabilities. Probate application prepared and filed.
Months 2-4: Probate grant
Supreme Court reviews the application and issues the grant. Clean applications: 4-8 weeks. Complex applications: 2-4 months.
Months 3-6: Asset collection
Executor uses the grant to close bank accounts, transfer property, liquidate investments, and collect insurance and super payouts where they pass to the estate.
Months 4-9: Debts and tax
All debts paid in priority order. Final personal tax return filed. Estate tax return filed if required. Any ongoing businesses managed or sold.
Months 9-12: Distribution
Specific gifts distributed. Residuary estate calculated. Final accounting provided to beneficiaries. Estate distributed.
Factors that delay
Contested wills (add 6-18 months). International assets (add 3-6 months). Complex business succession (add 6-12 months). Missing beneficiaries (variable).
Summary
Most deceased estates take 6-12 months from death to final distribution. Here's what happens at each stage.
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Disclaimer: This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Estate planning is deeply personal - every family's circumstances are different. For advice specific to your situation, please contact Rosewood Succession Solicitors.