Facts about getting married in Australia (whether you’re an Aussie or not)

Do we need to be Australian Citizens to marry in Australia? No. Anyone may marry in Australia providing you are both over the age of 18 and not already legally married.

What documents do we need to lodge? You will need to lodge a Notice Of Intended Marriage at least 1 month and 1 day and no more than 18 calender months before you marry. If you have organised a wedding celebrant they can help organise this on your behalf. Alternatively, we can help or you can download the form from the Attorney General's website.

Do we need to be in Australia or have lived in Australia for any given time before we can marry? No. If you wanted to you could marry the day that you arrive in the country, although you must have already lodged your Notice of Intended Marriage form.

Can I marry anywhere in Australia? Yes. Unlike the UK, in Australia you are permitted to marry on most beaches, parklands and gardens and buildings provided you have an authorised wedding celebrant or civil marriage celebrant to perform your wedding ceremony if it is outside of a church or synagogue.

Can we re-marry in Australia after being married in another country? No. The marriage is not legal if you are already married. You can however hold a renewal of vows ceremony or a commitment ceremony.

How many witnesses do we need? You need two witnesses present at your marriage ceremony who are over the age of 18. Any person can act as a witness, even your parents or siblings, however your wedding celebrant or religious minister cannot.

What other documents will I need to have with me to marry in Australia? You will need original birth certificates, passports, divorce decrees or death certificate.