In Australia, a "legal-only" wedding refers to a ceremony that focuses solely on fulfilling the legal requirements to register a marriage. This type of wedding is often chosen for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, or before a larger, more elaborate ceremony.
Here’s what is involved in a legal-only wedding in Australia:
1. Choosing a Celebrant
Registered Celebrant: You’ll need to engage a registered celebrant who is authorised to conduct marriages in Australia. They will ensure that the ceremony complies with all legal requirements.
Simple Ceremony: For a legal-only wedding, the celebrant will perform a very straightforward ceremony focusing solely on the legal aspects.
2. Legal Requirements
Notice of Intended Marriage: You and your partner submit a Notice of Intended Marriage form to your celebrant at least one month (and no more than 18 months) before the wedding date. This form includes your personal details and declarations about your eligibility to marry.
Documents: You need to provide original documents as proof of identity and citizenship. This typically includes:
Birth Certificate or Passport: To prove your identity and nationality.
Change of Name Certificate: If applicable, to show any previous name changes.
Divorce Decree Absolute or Death Certificate: If either party has been previously married, you must provide proof of divorce or the death of the previous spouse
3. The Ceremony
Legal Content: The ceremony will include these legal components:
Declaration: The celebrant will ask you to sign a legal declaration that you are free to marry each other.
Vows: You’ll exchange vows (which you repeat after me) to fulfill the legal requirement.
Signature: You and your witnesses will sign the Marriage Register and the official Certificate of Marriage, which I’ll submit to the BDM (Briths, Deaths, Marriages).
No Additional Rituals: Unlike traditional or ceremonial weddings, a legal-only wedding typically does not include additional rituals, readings, or personal touches.
4. Witnesses
Witnesses: You need to have at least two witnesses present during the ceremony. They must be over 18 years old and will sign the marriage documents along with you and the celebrant.
5. Registration
Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, the celebrant will lodge the completed Marriage Register with the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages in the state or territory where the marriage took place.
Official Certificate: You can request an official marriage certificate from the Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages after the marriage is registered. This certificate serves as legal proof of your marriage.
6. Costs
Celebrant Fee: The cost of a legal-only wedding is typically lower than a full-service wedding. It mainly involves the celebrant’s fee, which may be less if the ceremony is minimal and quick.
Additional Costs: There may be additional costs for obtaining copies of documents, marriage certificates, or any optional services provided by the celebrant.
7. Post-Ceremony Considerations
Celebratory Event: Some couples choose to have a more elaborate celebration or symbolic ceremony at a later date, often referred to as a "wedding reception" or "commitment ceremony," to mark the occasion with family and friends.
Conclusion
A legal-only wedding in Australia is a practical option for couples who want to fulfill the legal requirements of marriage with minimal ceremony. It involves a straightforward process with a focus on the essential legal components, including the submission of required documents, a simple ceremony conducted by a registered celebrant, and the signing of legal paperwork. This approach is ideal for those who just want to get it done!