Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we lodge our Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)?
Your NOIM must be lodged at least one calendar month before your wedding date, and it can be lodged up to 18 months in advance.
What documents do we need to provide with our NOIM?
You'll usually need a birth certificate or passport for date and place of birth, current photo ID, and if previously married, divorce papers or a death certificate. Documents not in English need to be translated.
What kind of marriage service is this site mainly for?
This website is focused on paperwork-only marriages, registry-style ceremonies, and other short legal marriages for Canberra couples.
What are your fees?
Our paperwork-only marriage service starts from $700 inc GST. Witness service is $130 inc GST, after-hours service is $300 inc GST, and government certificate fees are charged separately by Access Canberra.
What's the difference between your simple marriage service and a traditional wedding?
Our simple marriage service focuses on the legal requirements only: the required wording, legal vows, signatures, and registration paperwork. It takes about five to 10 minutes.
Do we need to provide witnesses?
Yes, you need two witnesses aged 18 or over. We can provide witnesses for an additional fee of $130 (inc GST).
Can we get married the same day we lodge our NOIM?
Normally no. There is a mandatory one-calendar-month waiting period unless you obtain a shortening of time from a prescribed authority.
Do we both need to sign the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) together?
No. You can sign with different authorised witnesses at different times. The one-month waiting period starts once the celebrant receives the NOIM.
If I've changed my name, which name should I use on the NOIM?
You must use your current legal name, which should be supported by official documentation (birth certificate, change of name certificate, or marriage certificate).
What if my documents are not in English?
Documents not in English need an English translation, and the original documents still need to be provided.
When do we receive our marriage certificate?
You'll receive a ceremonial certificate on the day. The official certificate must be ordered separately through Access Canberra once the marriage has been registered.
Do we both need to sign the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) to begin the one month period?
If one party is unable to sign the NOIM before one month before they would like to marry, one party's signature is enough to begin the one month waiting period.
Where can we have our simple marriage service?
We can conduct the service at suitable locations across Canberra and the ACT, including homes, cafes, public parks, and private venues.
What if one of us lives overseas?
You can lodge your NOIM from overseas by having it witnessed by an Australian Consular Officer, Australian Diplomatic Officer, or notary public.
Can the one-month notice period be shortened?
Yes, but only in exceptional circumstances and only after: 1) Your NOIM has been lodged with us, 2) You apply to a prescribed authority with substantial supporting evidence, 3) The authority approves your application. Approval is never guaranteed.
How do I change my name after marriage?
Your official marriage certificate from Access Canberra can be used to update your name with most organisations. Some may require additional documentation.
How long does it take to receive the official marriage certificate?
Processing times change from time to time, so we recommend checking the current Access Canberra timeframes before you apply.