If you're planning to elope or have a micro wedding in Australia, it's important to understand the legal side of getting married. Here’s a simple, straightforward guide to help you understand what’s required to make your marriage legal in Australia.

Who Can Get Married in Australia?

To legally marry in Australia, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Not be married to anyone else
Not be marrying a close relative
Understand what marriage means and freely consent
Use an authorised celebrant for your ceremony

These rules apply to both Australian citizens and international couples looking to get married here.

What Is the NOIM?

The NOIM stands for Notice of Intended Marriage. It’s a legal form you must complete before getting married in Australia. This document notifies your celebrant of your intention to marry and must be submitted at least one month before your wedding date.

You’ll need to:

Fill out the NOIM with your celebrant
Provide original documents such as your birth certificate or passport
Sign the form in front of your celebrant or an authorised witness

Once the NOIM is lodged, it’s valid for up to 18 months, giving you flexibility when planning your day.

Do Marriage Rules Differ by State or Territory?

Marriage laws are the same across all of Australia. Whether you're in Victoria, Queensland, or the Red Centre, the legal requirements remain consistent.

However, some venue permissions and local guidelines might vary slightly, especially for ceremonies held in national parks or private properties.

While the legal steps stay the same, a few practical things can vary between states:

Permits for Outdoor Locations

Some states require a permit if you're planning an elopement in a national park, beach, or public space. For example:

Victoria & NSW: Most parks and gardens need a wedding permit
Queensland: Many beachfront locations are council-managed and may need booking
Northern Territory: Remote areas like Uluru may require special access permissions

Weather & Timing Considerations

Australia is vast, and each state has its own climate:

Summer in northern states like Queensland or NT can be very hot and humid – dry season is best
Winter is popular in northern areas, but great for elopements in southern states like Victoria and Tasmania
School holidays and public events may impact availability and accommodation in popular spots

This is something our team at Elope Australia can help & organise during the planning process.

What Your Celebrant Will Handle

At Elope Australia, we take care of the legal side so you can focus on your ceremony. Your celebrant will:

Help you complete and lodge your NOIM
Make sure your ceremony includes all legal wording
Witness and submit your marriage paperwork after the ceremony
Help you order your official marriage certificate (used for things like changing your name or passport)

Can You Get Married Quickly in Australia?

Yes, but there’s still the one-month notice period required by law. If you need to get married sooner, a shortening of time request can be made, but it must be approved by a prescribed authority and is only granted in exceptional circumstances.

Need help getting started?

Reach out via our contact form, and let’s make your elopement legal, easy and unforgettable.

Getting Married in Australia: What You Need to Know