5 Steps to Getting Married in Australia
Getting married in Australia is exciting and straightforward once you know the steps! The legal requirements might seem formal, but with the right guidance, it’s an easy process. Whether you're planning a small elopement or a grand celebration, here’s your ultimate guide to making your marriage official in Australia.
Step 1: Submit Your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
The first legal step in getting married in Australia is completing the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form. You must lodge this with your celebrant at least one calendar month before your wedding date.
You’ll need official documents like your birth certificate or passport and evidence of the end of any previous marriages (if applicable).
💡 Tip: Submitting the NOIM early gives you plenty of time to plan. This form is valid for up to 18 months, so don’t delay!
Step 2: Sign the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marry
Before your ceremony, both you and your partner must sign the Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marry in front of your celebrant.
This confirms you’re legally free to marry (not already married, closely related, or underage).
💡 Tip: Your celebrant will guide you through this—usually, it’s done just before the ceremony to keep things smooth.
Step 3: Say the Legal Words During the Ceremony
During your ceremony, no matter how big or small, a few important legal phrases must be included:
Your vows: You’ll each say: “I call upon the people here present to witness that I [Name] take you [Name] to be my lawful wedded [wife/husband/spouse].”
The celebrant’s words: Your celebrant will say specific legal statements to declare your marriage valid.
💡 Tip: Work with your celebrant to personalise the rest of your ceremony to make it unique and meaningful, but these phrases must remain as-is for the marriage to be legal.
Step 4: Sign the Marriage Certificates
After exchanging your vows, you’ll sign your Marriage Certificates along with two witnesses (over 18) and your celebrant.
This step officially seals the deal!
💡 Tip: This is a fantastic moment for a fun photo op and a moment to breathe. At this point you’re officially MARRIED, soak it up!
Step 5: Register Your Marriage
After the ceremony, your celebrant will handle the final legal step:
They’ll lodge your marriage documents with the Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registry in your state or territory.
You can also ask your celebrant to order an official Marriage Certificate, which you’ll need for legal purposes, like changing your name.
💡 Tip: Processing times for marriage certificates vary by state, so ask your celebrant about the timeline and ensure that they do order the certificate for you!
Getting married in Australia might require some paperwork, but with a skilled celebrant by your side (I happen to know a great one!), it’s a stress-free process. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach wedding, a pub lunch, an intimate elopement, or a big party, these steps ensure your love becomes officially recognised.
Let’s make your wedding absolutely YOU and unforgettable.