First meeting
When you decide on the time, date and venue for your wedding, you need to phone for an appointment (I am very flexible with time and can see you weekdays or after work, or on the weekend around ceremonies). At this meeting, you will be asked to complete the Notice of Intended Marriage form, which must be signed in my presence as witness. This form must be held by me for a period of one month plus one day before you can be married. It is valid for eighteen months from that time. You must also bring the following documents:
- Your original birth certificate if born in Australia (photocopies
cannot be accepted). If you were born outside Australia, your overseas passport
can be provided in the absence of a translated birth certificate.
Please note that according to law Australian passports are not aceptable as proof of identity for Marriage.
- If previously married, proof of dissolution (Divorce - Decree
Absolute), or Death Certificate.
- If either the intended Bride or Groom is under 18, the required form of consent (Only one can be under 18, not both).
Second meeting
A Statutory Declaration will be prepared for each partner to sign at this meeting, stating that each knows of no legal reason why they should not marry the other, and that they are both over the age of 18. The marriage cannot proceed uhntil these have beensigned and witnessed by both parties to the marriage.
I will have your Certificate of Marriage printed to show you at this meeting, so that you may check to ensure correct spelling, etc., prior to the wedding day.
This is the time when we will carefully run through your chosen ceremony, adding readings, and ensuring that all the legal requirements have been met.
It also provides us with the opportunity to renew our acquaintance as it may be some time since our first meeting, and to do a little mental "rehearsal" of how it will all come together on the big day. I can answer any last minute question about where to stand, who holds the rings, etc., and any other queries you or your bridal party may have.
Marriage & Relationship Education
Some couples find that attending a Marriage & Relationship Education course is very beneficial and provides them with life skills to take to their marriage. There are many courses available but below are some links for your convenience.
Relationships Australia
Centacare Sydney
Interrelate
Anglicare