When someone passes away, their belongings and money need to be handled carefully. The person who manages this is called an executor. In Queensland (QLD), executors can get paid for their work. This payment is called an executor’s commission. Many people ask about how this works and what rules apply. If you want clear information, you might talk to Probate Lawyers Brisbane. They help explain what you need to know about executor’s commission in QLD.
What is an Executor’s Commission?
An executor’s commission is money paid to the executor for managing the estate. This money is a reward for the work done. The executor has many tasks like finding assets, paying debts, and giving money to the right people. The commission helps pay for this time and effort.
Not all executors get paid. Sometimes, family members do this job without asking for money. But if the executor is a professional or wants payment, they can ask for a commission.
Who Can Get an Executor’s Commission in QLD?
In Queensland, the rules say only certain people can get a commission. Usually, the executor must ask the court to approve their payment. This means the court checks if the amount is fair.
Executors can be family members, friends, or professionals like lawyers and accountants. But if the will says the executor should not get paid, then no commission is given.
How is the Executor’s Commission Calculated?
In Queensland, there is no fixed amount for executor’s commission. The court decides what is fair based on the work done. Usually, the commission is a percentage of the estate’s value.
Here is a simple table to explain common commission rates:
| Estate Value | Commission Rate |
| Up to $50,000 | 5% – 6% |
| $50,001 to $500,000 | 3% – 5% |
| Above $500,000 | 1% – 3% |
These rates are only a guide. The court looks at how much work the executor did. If the job was hard or took a long time, the commission may be higher.

Steps to Get an Executor’s Commission in QLD
Here are the main steps an executor follows to get paid:
- Finish all work on the estate, like paying debts and taxes.
- Prepare a full report of work done and estate value.
- Apply to the court for permission to take the commission.
- The court reviews the application and may ask for more information.
- If approved, the executor gets the commission from the estate funds.
Executors must be honest and show all details. If the court finds problems, it can refuse the payment.
What Work Does the Executor Do?
Executors have many important jobs. Some of these include:
- Finding and listing all the person’s property and money.
- Paying any debts or bills the person owed.
- Filing taxes for the deceased person.
- Talking to banks, government offices, and lawyers.
- Giving money and belongings to people named in the will.
This work can be very detailed and take time. The commission helps pay for this effort.
When Can an Executor Not Get a Commission?
Sometimes, an executor does not get paid. This can happen if:
- The will says the executor cannot get a commission.
- The executor is a close family member and chooses not to take payment.
- The court finds the executor did not work properly or caused problems.
- The estate is very small, and the court decides no payment is fair.
What if There is Disagreement About the Commission?
Sometimes, people who inherit money do not agree with the commission amount. They may think the executor is asking for too much. If this happens, they can ask the court to review the commission.
The court will look at the work done and decide what is fair. Executors should keep good records to show their work.
Why Talk to Probate Lawyers Brisbane?
Probate Lawyers Brisbane can help you understand executor’s commission rules. They explain what you can expect when managing an estate. They also help make sure the process follows the law.
Whether you are an executor or an heir, lawyers can guide you. They help prepare court applications and keep everything clear.
Summary of Executor’s Commission Rules in QLD
| Topic | Key Point |
| What is it? | Payment to executor for managing estate. |
| Who gets it? | Executor approved by court, if allowed by will. |
| How much? | Usually a percentage, decided by court. |
| Process | Complete estate work, apply to court, get approval. |
| Disputes | Court reviews, executor must prove work done. |
Final Thoughts
Managing an estate is a big responsibility. The executor’s commission helps cover the work and time spent. Queensland has clear rules to keep things fair. Always keep good records and be honest. If unsure, ask for help from Probate Lawyers Brisbane. They guide you through the process smoothly.

