QUESTIONS and answers

1.  What can and can’t we include in our marriage ceremony?

A Civil Marriage Celebrant has certain obligations under the Marriage Act 1961.  I will explain these to you during our first meeting.  Once these obligations are met, the contents of the marriage ceremony are up to you.  For a bespoke ceremony it's fabulous if you both write your own ceremony  as much as possible as it's totally tailored to your wants and wishers. For personalised ceremonies I can write the majority of the ceremony and you can edit/cut/paste etc as much as you wish.  I am also completely happy to guide you in writing your own ceremony too if you would prefer.  You may wish to include symbols, a special dedication or a cultural tradition or ritual. Bring your own ideas or I can help you out with that part also.  If short and sweet is your thing - then let's do that.  Really anything goes and it's all about the two of you. 

2.  Who can act as a witness to the ceremony?

Two people, over the age of eighteen are required to act as witnesses.  They should be able to speak and understand English, otherwise an interpreter will be required.  At the completion of the ceremony you, the Marriage Celebrant and the witnesses will be required to sign the Marriage Register and Marriage Certificate.

3.  I have been married before but don't have my divorce papers, what do I do?

You can get a copy of your Decree Absolute from the Federal Circuit Court of Australia - click here to go to directly to their website: http://www.federalcircuitcourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fccweb/how-do-i/divorce/proof-of-divorce/fcc-proof-divorce

4.  I can't find my original birth certificate, what do I do ?

https://publications.qld.gov.au/dataset/birth-certificate-extract-application/resource/c7dcb2f9-275b-480e-950e-377318c9b80b

5. What paperwork do we need to bring when we see you?  

At the first informal meeting you don't need to bring any paperwork.  At our second meeting you will need to bring your original Australian Birth Certificate and your Drivers Licence.  If you were born overseas I will need to see your Passport too.  You will also need to bring along a Decree Absolute or Death Certificate if applicable.  Together we will complete a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form at that meeting & a Statutory Declaration. You can download and complete the NOIM prior to our meeting if you want to save time - click here to download a copy: https://publications.qld.gov.au/dataset/notice-of-intended-marriage/resource/00a3c5cf-fc4f-4ab0-a559-6802d725362c

6. Do we have to attend any pre-marital courses?

No. However you may wish to contact these  organisations for further assistance: Relationships Australia 1300 364 277 www.relationships.com.au  or CatholicCare Services  1300 477 433 https://www.catholiccare.services/services/foccus/

I will also provide you with a pamphlet - Happily Ever... Before and After

7. How do I change my name once I am married ? 

If you wish to change your name after marriage (changing name is a custom not a law) or require further legal proof of marriage for residency or visa purposes, then you will need to contact Births Deaths & Marriages and lodge a form. Click here for further information: https://www.qld.gov.au/law/births-deaths-marriages-and-divorces/changing-your-name/changing-your-name-through-marriage

8.  How do I get a marriage certificate following my wedding? 

The certificate issued by the registry of Births Deaths and Marriages (BDM) is required for many official purposes such as changing your name. You can apply for this certificate with BDM after your wedding.  To read about applying for a marriage certificate from Qld BDM (inc fees and selection) click here:

https://www.qld.gov.au/law/births-deaths-marriages-and-divorces/birth-death-and-marriage-certificates/marriage-certificates/applying-for-a-marriage-certificate