Marriage Act 1961: What Couples Need to Know
A plain-English guide to the Marriage Act 1961 for couples planning a legal marriage.
The Marriage Act 1961 is the main federal law that governs marriage in Australia.
For most couples, the practical points are:
- you must give the NOIM in time
- both people must consent freely
- both people must be present in person
- the celebrant must be authorised
- two witnesses aged 18 or over are needed
- the required legal wording must be used
The Act also now requires the celebrant to meet separately and in person with each party before the marriage is solemnised.
Why this matters on the Gold Coast
The legal rules are national, but after the marriage the registration happens through Queensland Births, Deaths and Marriages because that is where the marriage took place.
Official sources
If you want the exact law and official guidance, start with:
Related guides
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