LEGAL REQUIREMENTS for couples marrying in Australia

Both parties 18years or over: (Judge or Magistrate permission required if one party has not attained 18years but is between 16-18years; to be discussed with Registered Marriage Celebrant)

Previous marriages stated. Proof of dissolution divorce order/death notice must be sighted by Registered Celebrant

Not prohibited by relationship to each other by blood or adoption.

One month and one days notice must be given-ie NOIM (Notice of Intended Marriage) must be dated, signed and witnessed. NOIM held by the Registered Celebrant until after the marriage takes place then is lodged with the Registry of BDM (births, deaths and marriages) Shorter time given; to be discussed with Registered Marriage Celebrant

Statutory Declaration is made – reverse side of OMC (Official Marriage Certificate)-relating to conjugal status and no other legal impediment.

2(two) witnesses must be present at the Marriage ceremony – both must be over the age of 18years – they witness the signature of couple.


FORMS - Supplied and lodged by Registered Marriage Celebrant:

NOIM: signed and witnessed (can be by Registered Celebrant), is held by Registered Celebrant until after ceremony, then lodged with Registry of BDM

Official Marriage Certificate: signed and witnessed at ceremony. Registered Marriage Celebrant to lodge with Registry of BDM.

Statutory Declaration on reverse of OMC must be completed and signed before ceremony.

Marriage Register: Signed and witnessed at ceremony. This Register is kept by the Registered Marriage Celebrant.

Presentation Marriage Certificate: Signed and witnessed at ceremony where it is presented to the couple.

False statements made on the NOIM or Statutory Declaration have serious consequences that may lead to penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.