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).
Please note: this information is for guidance purposes
only and liable to change without notice. Please check with your wedding
planner in resort or the relevant embassy of the country in which you intend
to marry for up to date details before you marry.
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Australia Marriage
Registrar's
Office
NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages
35 Regent Street
Chippendale
SYDNEY NSW 2008
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.30pm
Call Centre Hours: Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm
Telephone: +61 1300 655 236
