The Notice of Intended Marriage
Your authorised celebrant guides you through the legal requirements. Give them your Notice of Intended Marriage at least one month and no more than 18 months before the ceremony. A shorter notice period needs approval; speak with your celebrant before making short-notice plans.
Australian Government marriage requirements
Ask your celebrant how to complete and have the form witnessed. Tell them if you are overseas or need help obtaining a document.
Evidence of birth and identity
Have your birth certificate or passport available as evidence of your date and place of birth. Your celebrant will also check your identity using an accepted document, such as a passport or driver’s licence.
Ask before ordering replacements or translations so you obtain the documents needed for your circumstances.
Any previous marriage
If either of you has been married before, your celebrant needs evidence that the previous marriage has ended. Discuss which document is required and make sure it is available before the wedding.
Meetings and witnesses
Your celebrant must meet separately and in person with each of you before the marriage is solemnised. Arrange those meetings as part of your planning.
Choose two adult witnesses who can attend the ceremony. The couple, celebrant and witnesses must be physically present.
After signing
Your celebrant lodges the marriage paperwork with the relevant registry within 14 days. Confirm who will apply for your official marriage certificate and whether any fee is included in your quote.
Keep identity documents and certificates in a secure place. Send sensitive documents using the method agreed with your celebrant.
Read the marriage planning overview · Explore celebrant services