Australia Notary Fee Guide: What You Should Expect to Pay
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When planning to notarize documents in Australia, one of the first questions that comes to mind is — how much does it cost? Whether you're verifying a legal contract, authenticating a passport copy, or preparing a visa application, understanding the fee structure for notary services is essential.
This comprehensive guide outlines typical notary fees in Australia, covering various document types, urgency levels, and state-by-state variations.
What Is a Notary Public and Why Does It Cost?
A Notary Public in Australia is a qualified legal professional who can witness signatures, certify documents, and verify the authenticity of paperwork for international use. The cost reflects their legal expertise, licensing, and the formality required.
Notary Fees in Australia (2025 Update)
While notary fees can vary, here’s an overview of average rates you can expect:
| Service Type | Average Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Standard Document Certification | $80 – $150 per document |
| Passport Notarization | $90 – $130 |
| Power of Attorney | $120 – $250 |
| Certified Copy of ID | $80 – $100 |
| Statutory Declaration | $90 – $120 |
| Visa Support Documents | $100 – $150 |
| Apostille/Legalisation Add-on | $60 – $100 (extra) |
Prices vary by location, urgency, and number of documents.
Notarization Fees by Document Type
Power of Attorney
- Fees: $120 to $250
- Usually depends on the number of pages and witnessing requirements.
Visa and Immigration Documents
- Fees: $90 to $150
- Includes notarization of sponsor letters, affidavits, and passport copies.
Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
- Fees: $80 to $130
- Often combined with translation services for international use.
Academic Certificates & Transcripts
- Fees: $85 to $120
- Required for study abroad, immigration, or job applications.
Real Estate Documents
- Fees: $150 to $300
- Includes sale deeds, lease agreements, and mortgage forms.
State-by-State Notary Fee Comparison
| State/Territory | Typical Notary Fee Range |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | $90 – $150 |
| Victoria | $85 – $145 |
| Queensland | $80 – $140 |
| Western Australia | $100 – $160 |
| South Australia | $85 – $130 |
| Tasmania | $80 – $120 |
Mobile or after-hours services may cost extra.
How Much Does Mobile or Express Notarization Cost?
- Mobile Notary Call-Out Fee: $50–$100 extra
- Urgent/Same-Day Fee: Additional $50–$150
You may pay more for services outside business hours or on weekends.
Online and Remote Notary Services
Remote notarization has grown popular post-COVID. However, fees are comparable or slightly lower:
- Online Document Review & Certification: $70–$120
- Video Verification Add-ons: $30–$50 extra
Ensure your document type is eligible for remote notarization under Australian laws.
Notarizing for Overseas Use: Apostille and Legalisation
For documents going abroad, you may also need:
- Apostille Stamp from DFAT: $92 per document (govt. fee)
- Notary Legalisation Coordination: $60–$100 professional fee
These fees are separate from the notary’s charge.
Affordable Notary Services: How to Save
- Bundle Documents: Many notaries offer discounts for multiple documents.
- Off-Peak Booking: Weekday appointments often cost less.
- Mobile Services: Book in advance to avoid surcharges.
- Compare Online: Check notary directories for competitive rates.
Business & Legal Entity Notarization
Legal departments and corporations often require bulk notary services:
- Commercial Documents: $120–$200 each
- Legal Contracts or Agreements: $150–$300
- Volume Discounts: Common for 5+ documents
FAQs About Notary Costs in Australia
Are notary fees regulated in Australia?
Not directly. Fees are generally market-based but should be reasonable under legal practice guidelines.
Do I need a solicitor or lawyer to notarize a document?
Only a registered Notary Public can notarize for international use. Some notaries also practice as solicitors.
Can Justice of the Peace (JP) notarize documents?
No. JPs can witness and certify, but not for international use — only notaries are recognized overseas.
Final Thoughts
Understanding notary fees helps you plan and avoid surprises. Whether you're preparing legal documents, applying for a visa, or certifying identity, Australia offers a flexible notary ecosystem. From digital notary platforms to express mobile services, you can choose options based on urgency, document type, and location.
Need your document notarized fast and affordably? Reach out to a licensed notary public today.
