How to Get Married in Australia
Everything you need to know about getting legally married, from paperwork to ceremony options.
Getting married in Australia is straightforward once you understand the legal requirements. Whether you want a grand celebration, a simple registry office wedding, or a mobile celebrant who comes to you, the legal process is the same. Here's everything you need to know.
Legal Requirements
To get legally married in Australia, you must meet these requirements:
- Age:Both parties must be 18 years or older (16-17 with court approval)
- Not already married:Any previous marriages must have ended through divorce or death
- Not closely related:You cannot marry a direct ancestor, descendant, or sibling
- Consent:Both parties must freely consent to the marriage
- Valid NOIM:Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage at least 1 month before
Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to get legally married in Australia:
1Complete the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
This legal form must be signed by both parties and witnessed by an authorised person (celebrant, JP, lawyer, or doctor). It must be lodged at least 1 calendar month before your wedding and is valid for 18 months.
Learn more about the NOIM2Gather Your Documents
You'll need proof of identity (birth certificate, passport) and proof of any previous marriages ending (divorce certificate, death certificate of former spouse).
See full document list3Choose Your Ceremony Type
Decide between a religious ceremony, a civil ceremony at a registry office, or a ceremony with a registered marriage celebrant at a location of your choice. All are equally legal.
4Arrange Two Witnesses
Australian law requires two witnesses aged 18 or over who can understand the ceremony (basic English comprehension). They sign the marriage certificate alongside you.
Witness requirements5The Ceremony
The legal ceremony includes specific words required by law (the "monitum" about marriage being a lifelong union), exchange of vows, and signing of the marriage documents.
What happens on the day6Registration with BDM
Your celebrant lodges the marriage paperwork with Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) within 14 days. You can then order your official marriage certificate.
About marriage certificatesCeremony Options
In Australia, you have several ways to get married. All produce the same legal outcome.
Religious Ceremony
Conducted by a religious minister who is also a registered marriage celebrant. Follows the traditions of your faith while meeting legal requirements.
Registry Office Wedding
A simple ceremony at the Births, Deaths and Marriages registry office. In Perth, this is located in the CBD. These are conducted by government officers during business hours.
Learn about registry office weddingsCivil Celebrant
A registered marriage celebrant performs your ceremony at a venue of your choice - beach, park, backyard, restaurant, or anywhere you like. Offers the most flexibility in terms of location, timing, and ceremony style.
Mobile Marriage Service
Our ServiceAll the simplicity of a registry office wedding, but we come to you. A registered celebrant travels to your chosen location in the Perth metro area, performs the legal ceremony, and handles all the paperwork. No traffic, no parking, no waiting rooms.
See how it worksTimeline
Lodge NOIM (minimum legal requirement)
Confirm ceremony details, witnesses, location
Ceremony, sign documents, you're married!
Celebrant lodges paperwork with BDM
Official marriage certificate available from BDM
Can Anyone Get Married in Australia?
Yes! You don't need to be an Australian citizen or resident to get married here. Tourists, visitors on any visa, and international couples can all legally marry in Australia.
Same-sex marriage has been legal in Australia since December 2017. All couples have equal marriage rights regardless of gender.
Guide for non-citizens getting marriedWhat Does It Cost?
Marriage costs in Australia vary widely depending on your ceremony choice:
Government office, business hours
We come to you, flexible times
Personalised ceremony, multiple meetings
Venue, catering, photography, etc.
Note: Official marriage certificate from BDM costs approximately $55 (ordered separately after the ceremony).
Related Topics
Registry Office Weddings in Perth
What is a registry office? BDM vs private marriage offices explained.
Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
Complete guide to the NOIM form and requirements.
Documents Required
ID requirements and what to bring to your ceremony.
Changing Your Name
What to do after the wedding if you want to change your name.