Rules for getting married
Part of the Marriage topic
Understand the rules you need to follow to get married in Queensland.
In short
In Australia, you can marry someone of any gender.
You don't have to be:
- an Australian citizen
- a permanent resident of Australia.
Use these rules when you get married.
You must
| Correct.Have at least 1 partner who is 18 or older. |
| Correct. Have a parent or guardian consent and a Magistrates Court Order if 1 partner is 16 or 17. |
| Correct. Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage form at least 1 month (and up to 18 months) before the wedding. |
| Correct. Have an Australian registered celebrant carry out the wedding. |
| Correct. Have 2 witnesses 18 years or older at the wedding. |
| Correct. Have an interpreter present at the wedding if either partner cannot speak or understand English. |
You cannot
| Incorrect.GGGet married if you are still married to someone else. This includes legal marriages overseas. |
Incorrect.Marry your:
|
| Incorrect.B\Be forced to get married, or force someone else to marry you. |
Exceptions and special circumstances
If you want to get married in less than 1 month and you have not submitted a Notice of Intended Marriage form, you may be able to apply for a shortening of the notice time.
Talk to your registered celebrant who may be able to help you with the application process.
There are 5 categories for exceptions to the rules may be considered:
- employment-related or other travel commitments
- wedding or celebration arrangements
- medical reasons
- legal proceedings
- error in giving notice.
You need to apply to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages for approval.
To ask for approval you must:
- have a very good reason
- be able to provide evidence of your special circumstances.
Requests are not always approved.
Managed by: Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages