Urgent -Final order only takes effect with decree absolute

Just had the final order which states it 'takes effect from Decree Absolute'.
Does this mean I don't have to do anything in terms of complying with it until I get decree absolute, even though key dates for payments to my ex are imminent (one due next Tuesday)? It certainly reads that way. I know my wife was refusing to apply for decree absolute or remove the home rights notice on the FMH until she got the final order.
I tried applying for decree absolute last week only for it to be turned down because the judge at final hearing had only granted the petitioner permission to apply out of time (nisi was granted in2019) and I am the respondent!
It seems nothing can move on without my ex applying for decree absolute- but what happens if she never does? How on earth do I get divorcedand how do I comply with the order?!

You may need to make an application for permission to apply our of time yourself.

Before you do, I would write to the other side asking them to make the application immediately. Give a deadline after which you will apply and claim costs. Point out that you are advised that the order is not activated until Decree Absolute is in place.

Did your application include the required statement setting out the reasons for the delay and confirming a: that you have not lived together as man and wife and B: there are no (further) children born of the marriage since Decree Nisi.

Hadenoughnow

Thank you. I did already ask her and she refused until the otder was in. In the meantime I have applied again with the statement in support. Her solicitor takes weeks to do anything so I doubt it will be done by them any time soon. Its already a month since FH. But no doubt they will threaten me with something when she doesn't get her money by the date in order. I guess that might get them to take some action!