Getting Married in Australia in 2025? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

So, you’re planning to tie the knot, congratulations! Whether you’re a local or someone dreaming of a coastal celebration in Mandurah, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Australia. While planning your perfect day can feel exciting (and a little overwhelming), the legal side doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right guidance and a trusted wedding celebrant by your side, your journey to “I do” can be as smooth as your wedding vows.

Who Can Legally Marry in Australia?
Before you start browsing wedding venues or choosing florals, let’s talk about eligibility. To be legally married in Australia, both partners must be over 18 years of age. You can’t already be married to someone else, and you must not be closely related by blood or adoption.

Most importantly, both people must give full, free, and informed consent to the marriage. That means you both understand what marriage is and are entering it voluntarily. Australia welcomes both opposite-sex and same-sex couples, and since 2017, marriage equality is proudly part of the law.
What Is a Notice of Intended Marriage?
One of the most crucial documents you’ll need is the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM). This form must be completed and filed with your wedding celebrant at least one month before the wedding date. You can’t just walk in and get married the next day, Australian law requires this notice period so everything can be properly arranged and verified.

You can submit your NOIM up to 18 months in advance, which is great if you’re planning ahead. If something unexpected comes up like urgent travel or health concerns, there are exceptions that allow you to apply to shorten the notice period, but these are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
What Documents Will You Need?
When filing your NOIM, you’ll need to provide evidence of your identity, date of birth, and marital status. Typically, this includes:

• An original birth certificate or a valid passport
• A driver’s licence or photo ID
• If previously married: divorce papers or a death certificate of your former spouse

A qualified wedding celebrant or wedding official will let you know exactly what you need and guide you through the process.
The Role of a Wedding Celebrant or Wedding Official
Now, let’s talk about who can actually marry you. This includes:

• Civil marriage celebrants, who perform non-religious ceremonies tailored to your personal story
• Religious celebrants, who conduct ceremonies based on specific faith traditions
• Registry officials, who conduct simple, formal ceremonies through government offices

Your chosen celebrant will be responsible for more than just leading the ceremony. They will verify your documents, ensure your marriage is legally valid, lodge your paperwork with the state registry, and help craft the ceremony if you’d like something unique and meaningful.
What Must Happen at the Ceremony?
Australian marriage law includes a few set words and actions that must happen during your ceremony. These aren’t just traditions, they’re legal requirements.

The celebrant must declare their authority to marry you under Australian law. You and your partner must each say a prescribed legal vow, stating your full names and your intention to marry each other.

You’ll also need two witnesses aged 18 or older to be present at the ceremony and sign the marriage certificates with you. This helps confirm that everything was done according to the law.

After the ceremony, the celebrant will submit your signed paperwork to the state registry, usually within 14 days. You’ll be given a commemorative certificate on the day, but you’ll need to apply separately for the official legal marriage certificate which you’ll need for things like passport changes, bank records, and more.

Why Choosing the Right Celebrant Matters
Your celebrant plays a key role in making your day memorable and legal. Beyond helping with paperwork, a good celebrant can personalise your ceremony to reflect your love story. They’ll take care of the details, help you meet every legal requirement, and ensure your ceremony feels authentic and relaxed.

At Marriage Office Mandurah, we believe every couple deserves a ceremony that feels effortless, joyful, and deeply meaningful. Whether you’re after something simple, romantic, or fully personalised, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Conclusion
If you’re getting married in Australia, understanding the legal requirements for getting married is the foundation of your big day. It’s not just about ticking boxes, it’s about making sure your love is celebrated in a way that’s both personal and legally right.

With the right wedding celebrant or wedding official by your side, your wedding day can be everything you imagined.

Ready to plan your perfect day in Mandurah? Contact Marriage Office Mandurah today and let us help you create a ceremony you’ll never forget.