Legal Requirements for Getting Married in Australia
Planning your wedding is such a beautiful mix of excitement, nerves, creativity and love. Alongside choosing the fun stuff — like music, readings and outfits — there are a few legal boxes that must be ticked for your marriage to be officially recognised in Australia.
The good news? None of it is scary, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. As a registered Australian celebrant, I walk couples through this process every day — calmly, clearly, and without the overwhelm.
Here’s what you need to know.
Australian Marriage Law: The Marriage Act 1961 Explained
All legal marriages in Australia are governed by the Marriage Act 1961 and the Marriage Regulations. These laws apply nationwide, no matter where or how you choose to marry — from beaches and backyards to wineries and ceremony spaces.
For a marriage to be legal, certain things must happen before, during and after your ceremony.
Who Can Legally Marry You in Australia?
Your marriage must be solemnised by an authorised marriage celebrant, which includes:
A Commonwealth‑registered civil marriage celebrant
A registered religious celebrant or minister of religion
A state or territory registry celebrant
A friend or family member can absolutely be involved in your ceremony — but unless they’re registered, they can’t legally marry you.
Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM): What Australian Couples Must Know
Before you can be legally married, you must lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM).
It must be given to your celebrant at least one month before your wedding
It can be lodged up to 18 months in advance
Your celebrant must sight your identity documents
In some situations, the NOIM can be witnessed via live audio‑visual link if legal conditions are met. I guide couples through this step‑by‑step so nothing is missed.
Who Is Eligible to Get Married in Australia?
To legally marry in Australia, both people must:
Be 18 years or older (unless a court order applies)
Be free to marry (not currently married)
Give free and informed consent
Not be in a prohibited family relationship
If you’ve been married before, you’ll just need to show that the previous marriage has legally ended.
Wedding Witnesses and Legal Paperwork in Australia
You’ll need two witnesses, both over 18, who are physically present at your ceremony. They’ll hear the legal vows and sign the paperwork afterwards.
Your celebrant then lodges everything with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 14 days — one of the many behind‑the‑scenes tasks we take care of for you.
FAQ: Legal Marriage Requirements in Australia
Do we need to organise the paperwork ourselves?
No — your celebrant guides you through it all.
What if we miss the one-month NOIM deadline?
In limited circumstances, a shortening of time may be possible, but it must be approved.
Is our marriage legal straight away?
Yes — once the ceremony is completed correctly. You then apply separately for your official certificate.
Ready to Make It Official?
If you’re planning a wedding and want the legal side handled calmly, clearly and correctly, I’d love to help.
As a registered Australian celebrant, I take care of the paperwork, timelines and legal wording — while creating a ceremony that feels relaxed, meaningful and completely you.
👉 Get in touch to check your date, ask questions or start planning your ceremony — no pressure, just a friendly chat.
