Ann: Dividend/Distribution - BLD, page-29

Hopefully I will provide a simply answer that makes sense.

The XD is the date on which a new buyer is not entitled to the dividend.
The record date is set 1 working day after XD and is the date on which they check the register of owners to ascertain who has an entitlement to the dividend.

In Australia share sales settle on a T+2 basis in that T is the date you trade plus 2 business days. My understanding is that if you buy/sell today, the trade won't settle until the end of week.

That said, like I said before, why the rush? If in doubt, sell tomorrow or next week etc.

Not a genius here so as always, do your own research.