Some other questions answerd.
How long before we can marry?
A Notice of Intention to Marry (NOIM) must be submitted to the Celebrant at least Thirty-one (31) days before the ceremony and no earlier than eighteen (18) months.
What age can we marry?
The minimum age for marriage is 16. BUT a couple where both are under18 years is forbidden under Australian law.
If one member is under 18 years of age, approval from a court must be obtained and also a direct parent of that member.
What do we need to provide?
To complete the Notice of Intention to Marry (NOIM) you will need to provide a certified copy of you Australian birth certificate.
Or:
a overseas passport indicating your date of birth,
if you have been previously married, a degree Nisi (obtainable for the court that originally issued it).
If your previous partner died then a verified death certificate showing the date of death.
We want a simple ceremony. What are the least number of people who need to attend?
The couple, a Celebrant and two witnesses.
Do we have to know the Witnesses?
As long as they are over eighteen years of age the witnesses can be complete strangers. The celebrant needs to obtain their addresses and other contact details and verify they are who they say they are.
Can we add readings and our own music to the ceremony?
You can vary the ceremony any way you wish. Certain events are compulsory, like the Monitum, vows and the signing of the register but every thing else is your choice.
It is your event so you can make it as personal as you like.
What is the Monitum?
The Monitum is a declaration made by the Celebrant. It contains their authorisation,
the importance of marriage and the legal definition of a marriage.
Do I have to have someone to give us away?
No, that is your choice.
Do we have to give rings?
No, the giving of tokens is your choice.
Do we have to make vows?
Yes, there is a minimum declaration that must be made by both of you.
Can we make up own vows?
Yes, but they must contain the minimum declaration.
Can we play music at the wedding?
Music played during “the ceremony” is exempt from copyright infringement.
Music played after the ceremony may be subject to copyright infringement and verification about public performance licence requirements should be made to the venue management.
Do I have to change my name?
No, that is a personal preference. Inform the Celebrant how you wish to be addressed after the Ceremony.
Is the certificate given at the end of the ceremony an official document?
Yes, it is normally sufficient to confirm the status of your marriage.
In some circumstances, in the case of a name change, some organisation may require a verified copy obtained from the Office of Birth and Deaths.
What contractual commitment do we receive from the Celebrant?
Formal terms and conditions are provided in writing to protect both you and the Celebrant.
What Fees are required?
The fees reflect the minimum cost in providing this service. Discounts are not available under any circumstances.
Receipts will be provided.
Fees can be paid by cash, cheque, direct deposit