How to Legally get married in wa: A Step by step guide
Step 1: Meet the Legal Requirements
Before you begin the process, make sure both parties:
- Are at least 18 yeats old*
- Are not already married
- Are not closely related (e.g. siblings or parent/child)
- Understand what marriage means and freely consent
Step 2: Choose your Celebrant
You must be married by an authorised celebrant. You can choose between:
- A Civil Celebrant
- A Religious Celebrant
- A Civil Celebrant at The Fremantle Marriage Office
Make sure your chosen celebrant is registered with the Australian Government
Step 3: Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
This form must be completed and lodged with your celebrant at least one calendar month before your wedding day (and no more than 18 months in advance).
You’ll need:
- Original birth certificates or passports
- Photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence)
- Divorce or death certificates if previously married.
Your celebrant will witness your signatures and submit the form.
Step 4: Plan Your Ceremony
While you can personalise your ceremony, a few legal words must be included:
- The celebrant must say a specific monitum as defined by the Marriage Act
- Each party must say the legal declaration: “I call upon the persons here present…”
Discuss the structure of your ceremony with your celebrant in advance.
Step 5: Get Married!
On the day, you’ll need two witnesses (aged 18+) to be present and sign the official marriage documents.
Your celebrant will provide and lodge the required paperwork:
- Official Certificate of Marriage
- Marriage Register
- Declaration of No Legal Impediment
Step 6: Register your Marriage
In most cases, your celebrant will lodge your marriage documents with the WA Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages within 14 days. Once registered, you can apply for an official marriage certificate (used for legal name changes, visa applications, etc.).
Apply online or in person through the WA Registry.
Final Tips:
- Book your celebrant and ceremony location early, especially during peak seasons
- Double-check ID and paperwork before lodging your NOIM
- Allow processing time when applying for your official certificate
Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or a sweet moment at the Fremantle Marriage Office, following these steps will ensure your marriage is recognised under Australian law. Let love lead the way—and we’ll take care of the rest!