The Five Main Legalities of Weddings in Brisbane and the Gold Coast

Planning a wedding is filled with excitement, from choosing flowers to writing your vows. But before you say “I do”, there are important legal steps that must be followed to ensure your marriage is recognised under Australian law.

As a Brisbane wedding celebrant and Gold Coast wedding celebrant, I help couples every step of the way, ensuring that their ceremony is not only romantic but also legally binding. Whether you are planning a private wedding, a wedding at home, or even a legals only wedding Brisbane, knowing these requirements will give you peace of mind.

Here are the five main legalities every couple should know when planning their wedding in Brisbane or the Gold Coast.

1. Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)

Couples must lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage at least one month before the wedding ceremony. This form can be submitted up to 18 months in advance. Your celebrant of marriage will guide you through the process to ensure all details are correct and submitted on time.

2. Identification and Proof of Eligibility

You will need to provide original identification documents, such as birth certificates or passports. If either party has been married before, proof of divorce or a death certificate is also required. A celebrant Brisbane will help check that everything meets legal standards before your ceremony.

3. The Role of the Authorised Marriage Celebrant

Your wedding must be performed by an authorised celebrant of marriage. Whether you choose a marriage celebrant Brisbane or a marriage celebrant Gold Coast, their role is to ensure your vows include the legally required wording, and that your registered marriage is valid under Australian law.

4. Witnesses at the Wedding Ceremony

Two witnesses over the age of 18 must be present at the ceremony. This applies to all types of ceremonies, from private weddings to weddings without reception. A celebrant at a wedding will ensure your witnesses are correctly recorded on the paperwork.

5. Signing the Marriage Certificates

Immediately after the vows, three marriage certificates must be signed by the couple, the witnesses, and the marriage celebrant. One copy stays with your celebrant, one is given to you, and one is lodged with the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registry. This step officially records your union as a registered marriage.

Making the Legal Simple and the Day Beautiful

While the legalities may sound complex, your celebrant marriage professional will take care of every detail. From explaining marriage celebrant fees to guiding you through forms, a Brisbane wedding celebrant or Gold Coast wedding celebrant ensures your day is stress-free, romantic, and legally binding.

Contact us today for your personalised Wedding Ceremony ... letsmarry.com.au/celebrant

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