Congratulations on your engagement! Once the excitement settles, it helps to understand what the law actually needs from you. The good news: it’s simpler than most people think, and I handle the paperwork for you.
First things first: can you legally marry?
Legal eligibility checklist
- You must both be at least 18 (16 and 17-year-olds can only marry with a court order).
- You must not be closely related by blood or adoption.
- You must not already be married to someone else.
- You must both freely consent to the marriage.
The Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
The NOIM is simply a form that tells the Australian Government you intend to get married. It’s the document that starts the whole legal process, and I organise it with you.
- It can be lodged up to 18 months before your wedding.
- It must reach your celebrant at least one full calendar month before the big day.
- After the ceremony, your celebrant must lodge the paperwork within 14 days. I do it the next business day.
What documents will you need?
- Proof of date and place of birth: a birth certificate or passport.
- Photo ID: such as a driver’s licence or passport.
- If either of you has been married before: evidence the marriage ended, such as a divorce order or death certificate.
The ceremony itself
There are a few legal words that must be said in every Australian wedding, including the vows where you each take the other as your spouse. Beyond that, the ceremony is yours. Music, readings, rituals and your own vows are all up to you, and I’ll help you weave the legal bits in so it still sounds like you.
How I make it easy
My fee is one simple $790, and it covers your NOIM, all the legal documents and certificates, a ceremony written around your story, and lodgement the next business day. Got a question about the paperwork? Just ask. That’s what I’m here for.