Many Victorians are only now feeling the financial sting of increased probate fees in Victoria, introduced in late 2024. If you’re an executor or planning your estate, these changes could significantly impact your costs, and your strategy.
Key takeaways
- Probate fees in Victoria rose sharply from 18 November 2024, with increases of up to 650%.
- Estates over $250,000 are most affected, with new fee tiers introduced for large estates.
- Many families and executors are only now feeling the effects as they begin the probate process.
- Estate planning strategies may need urgent review to mitigate the impact of rising court costs.
Why Victorian probate fees still matter in 2025
The sharp rise in probate fees across Victoria officially came into effect on 18 November 2024 – but the real impact is only now being felt. Executors and grieving families are encountering significantly higher costs when applying for probate, prompting fresh concern among estate planning professionals and clients alike.
While this change may have slipped under the radar last year, 2025 is the year it’s biting. That’s because the increased fees apply when probate is lodged—not when someone passes away. For estates currently going through administration, the financial shock is now very real.
Whether you’re an executor, a professional adviser, or simply planning ahead for your family, this is not old news – it’s a wake-up call.
How have probate fees changed?
Previously, Victoria’s probate fees were relatively modest. But from 18 November 2024, a new tiered fee structure was introduced, significantly raising costs for estates valued above $250,000. Here’s how the changes stack up: See Supreme Court of Victoria Probate Office Fees
| Estate Value | Previous Fee | New Fee (from 18 Nov 2024) | % Increase |
| Under $250,000 | $64.80 – $68.60 | Waived | N/A |
| $250,000 – $500,000 | $68.60 | $514.40 | 650% |
| $500,000 – $1 million | $367.40 | $1,028.80 | 180% |
| $1 million – $2 million | $685.90 | $2,400.50 | 250% |
| $2 million – $5 million | N/A | $6,276.60 | New Tier |
| $5 million – $7 million | N/A | $11,015.90 | New Tier |
| Over $7 million | N/A | $16,803.60 | New Tier |
Why was the probate fee structure revised?
According to the Supreme Court of Victoria, the revised fee structure reflects a broader effort to ensure the Probate Office is financially sustainable and that fees are more in line with the cost of administering increasingly complex estates. But for many, it’s a sharp and sudden burden – particularly when dealing with grief and unfamiliar legal processes.
What the increased probate fees in Victoria mean for executors
Applying for probate is often the first formal task an executor must carry out. It’s already a demanding and technical role – now it’s also more expensive. Executors are personally liable for the probate application fee, and in some cases, they may need to fund this out of pocket while waiting for estate assets to be released.
This could lead to:
- Delays in estate administration while funds are sourced
- Discouragement of people from accepting the executor role
- Potential hardship if no estate cash is available upfront
If you have not reviewed your estate plan in the past 12 months, now is the time.
Plan ahead to reduce probate costs in Victoria
While the probate fee changes may no longer be breaking news, they are far from outdated. If your Will was prepared before late 2024 or hasn’t factored in these new costs, you could be leaving your loved ones with an unexpected financial and administrative burden.
At MST Lawyers, we work with individuals, families, and financial advisers to ensure your estate plan reflects current legal and financial realities – including this significant shift in probate costs.
Talk to MST Lawyers about future-proofing your estate plan
If you’re an executor currently navigating the probate process, or someone concerned about the cost your estate may incur in the future, our Wills and Estates team is here to help.
We can help you:
- Review and update your Will
- Structure your affairs to minimise the impact of probate fees
- Navigate the probate application process with clarity and confidence
Contact MST Lawyers today to book an estate planning consultation.
Further reading
- At MST Lawyers, our Probate Application Services can help you apply confidently and navigate the process.
- Challenging a Will – MST Lawyers
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FAQs about Probate Fees in Victoria
What are the current probate fees in Victoria in 2025?
As of 18 November 2024, probate fees in Victoria are based on the gross value of the estate. Fees are waived for estates under $250,000, but can reach up to $16,803.60 for estates over $7 million. These increases represent a significant change from the previous flat-fee model.
When are probate fees payable in Victoria?
Probate fees are payable at the time of lodging the application for a grant of probate with the Supreme Court of Victoria—not at the time of death. This is why many families are only now facing the increased costs in 2025.
Do jointly owned assets require probate in Victoria?
Not usually. Jointly held assets—such as property or bank accounts held as joint tenants—generally pass automatically to the surviving owner and are not included in the probate estate, which may help reduce the total estate value subject to probate fees.
Are probate fees in Victoria tax-deductible?
No, probate application fees are generally not tax-deductible, as they are considered private expenses incurred by the estate. However, other costs related to administering the estate may be deductible—seek advice from a tax adviser or estate lawyer.
Can probate fees be paid from the estate?
Yes. Probate fees are usually reimbursed from the estate once funds become available. However, executors are initially responsible for paying the fee out of pocket and may need to cover the cost upfront before accessing estate funds.
How can I reduce probate fees in Victoria?
You may be able to reduce the impact of probate fees through effective estate planning, including:
- Holding assets jointly (with rights of survivorship)
- Using trust structures
- Making binding nominations for superannuation and life insurance
- Ensuring liquidity in the estate to avoid delays
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