Estate administration happens in a sequence. Follow the phases in order and you won’t miss anything critical. The whole process typically takes 6 to 18 months for a standard estate.

Phase 1 — First 48 Hours

What to do immediately — before anything else.

Phase 2 — Notify and Freeze (Weeks 1–4)

Contact every institution that needs to know. Freeze accounts. Build a complete picture of what the estate owns and owes.

Phase 3 — Probate (Weeks 2–8+)

Work out whether the estate needs a court grant, then apply in the right state or territory. If there is no will, apply for Letters of Administration instead.

Probate by state and territory:

Phase 4 — Administer the Estate (Months 2–6)

With probate granted, deal with the estate’s assets, debts, and practical tasks.

Phase 5 — Tax (Months 2–12)

Lodge the deceased’s final return and, if the estate earned income, the estate’s trust return. Do not distribute before all tax is settled.

Phase 6 — Distribute and Close

Once debts are paid and tax is settled, distribute the estate and close the administration.

The Executor’s Guide provides general information about estate administration in Australia. It is not legal advice. For complex estates, speak with a solicitor experienced in estate administration.