Australia Wedding – How to get married in Australia
Thinking of getting married in Australia?
In Australia, a Civil Marriage Celebrant can marry couples anywhere, anytime. You can choose to hold your ceremony on a beach, in a hotel, in a hot-air balloon, underwater or just about anywhere you want. Rings are optional and you are totally free to create your own unique ceremony.
Marriage celebrants are encouraged to offer couples a choice of ceremonies and can help you write your own ceremony. You should feel comfortable with your celebrant and feel confident that he/she suits your needs and will complement your special day.
Choosing the right marriage celebrant will ensure that your day is a memorable one. To find an authorised marriage celebrant from a religious or non-recognised denomination, check the listing in your local Yellow Pages or through the marriage celebrant association in your area.
Documents required
What documents you require for an Australian wedding:
• A Birth Certificate or official extract
• A valid passport if not an Australian citizen
• The original copy of your Notice of Intention to Marry
• If divorced, your decree absolute
• If widowed, your spouses death certificate and previous marriage certificate
• Legal proof of any name changes by deed poll.
Regulations
Government regulations for an Australian wedding:
• You must be 18 years or older
• A Notice of Intended Marriage must be given to your marriage celebrant no later than one month and one day prior to the wedding
• You need to have two witnesses (over 18 years old) present at the ceremony, but there is no rule about how long you have known them.
Fees
Authorised marriage celebrants are entitled to charge for any services they provide. Fees for weddings are not fixed and may vary from one marriage celebrant to another. Make sure you reach an agreement in writing on the fees before asking the celebrant to hold the date. Make sure you understand what charges are non-refundable.
Same-sex commitment ceremony
It is not possible for same sex couples to marry under Australian law. However, it is not illegal to conduct commitment ceremonies between same sex couples provided they do not purport to be legal marriages.
Residency requirements
For overseas visitors there is a minimum of one day’s residency in Australia required prior to the ceremony. Overseas visitors can also obtain a Notice of Intention to Marry from their nearest Australian Consulate prior to arrival.
Blood tests
– Not required. |