Is there a deep shift in the way Australian couples marry? The numbers say yes, and it has been building for more than 50 years.
Three ways to marry in Australia
Until the early 1970s, most Australian couples married either in a church or other place of worship, or at a government registry office. In 1973 the Commonwealth began authorising civil marriage celebrants under the Marriage Act 1961. This gave couples a third choice: a legal ceremony that is neither religious nor run by the government, and that can be shaped entirely around the couple.
From one in ten to more than four in five
In 1970, 88% of Australian marriages were performed by ministers of religion. Today the position is reversed. According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, 83% of marriages in 2023 were performed by civil celebrants. Fewer than one in five couples now marry in a religious ceremony.
Why couples are choosing civil ceremonies
Personal meaning: a civil ceremony can tell your love story, include your own vows and reflect your values.
Any location: you can marry in a garden, on a beach, at a winery or in your own backyard, not only in a place of worship.
Blended families and cultures: civil ceremonies make it easy to include traditions from both families, whatever their faith.
Flexibility: you choose the music, readings, length and tone.
Faith still has a place
Choosing a civil celebrant doesn't mean leaving faith out. Many couples include a blessing, a prayer or a reading that matters to their family, or a cultural ritual with spiritual meaning. A good celebrant will help you include these respectfully while keeping the legal parts of the ceremony correct.
What this means for your wedding
Whether your ceremony is simple and intimate or a large celebration with family traditions, a civil celebrant gives you the freedom to make it yours. Mark David, with 15+ years wedding experience, writes every ceremony around the couple, from the first draft to the final words before you marry the love of your life.
Planning your ceremony? Book a call with Mark.