TODAY’S Australian reports the Australian government has agreed to pay Schapelle Corby's original lawyers $US96,000 for their failed defence of the Queensland beauty school student.

Ending months of speculation, Corby's first lawyer, Bali-based Lily Lubis, told The Australian she had already received a cheque for $US46,160, and was waiting for more money.

Ms Lubis's payment was drawn from the Special Circumstances (Overseas) Scheme, administered by Australia's Attorney-General's department.  Under the scheme, foreign lawyers submit a budget to the Australian government.  If approved, they claim against the budget with invoices and receipts.

The Australian understands all nine Australians arrested in Bali in April in connection with a heroin-smuggling ring have also applied for the assistance, and that one claim has been approved in principle.

Corby's new lawyers have lodged an appeal against her conviction, and a decision is expected to be handed down within weeks.