How to Marry in Australia

The legalities for getting married in Australia are quite simple, and many couples make the trip to the land of the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Australian weddings can take place anywhere, so if you'd like to marry on a boat, on a beach or in a rainforest, there's sure to be a wedding planner who can oblige. 

Below are the legalities for marrying in Australia, to help you plan your ideal wedding abroad.

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Australia Marriage Law Requirements

What are the legal requirements to get married in Australia?
Legal age for marriage is 18 years for both men and women. If between 16 and 17 years old then parental consent is required.
Bride and Groom may not be closely related by blood.
Two witnesses are required.

 

How long do I have to be resident in Australia before I can get married?
There are no residency requirements to get married in Australia, although you will need to apply for a marriage licence before marrying.

 

Getting a marriage licence
You must fill in a Notice of Intended Marriage form at least a month before the wedding. This can be obtained from an Authorised Celebrant or from a Births, Deaths and Marriages Registry Office in a State or Territory's capital city, or the Australian High Commission.
It can also be faxed to you and you may fill it out and have it witnessed outside of Australia. It must be filled in and given to the celebrant at least a month and a day before the ceremony.

 

What legal papers do I need to take with me?
Birth Certificates or passports
If you have been divorced then the final divorce papers must be shown
If you are widowed then the death certificate of your previous spouse must be shown and your former wedding certificate
If you are adopted then your adoption certificate must be shown
If your name has been changed by deed poll then legal proof must be shown, stamped and dated by a solicitor (including if you are divorced and have reverted to your maiden name).