Question 1

How far in advance should we lodge our Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)?

Accepted Answer

Your NOIM must be lodged at least one calendar month before your wedding date. You can lodge up to 18 months in advance. We recommend lodging early to ensure ample time for processing and preparation.

Question 2

What documentation do we need to provide with our NOIM?

Accepted Answer

You'll need to provide: A birth certificate or current passport (for proof of date and place of birth), current photo ID (driver's licence, passport, etc.), and if previously married, divorce papers or death certificate of former spouse. Any documents not in English must be accompanied by a NAATI-certified translation.

Question 3

Will we attend your wedding?

Accepted Answer

Brisbane City Celebrants offers a simple paperwork-only service conducted over a desk or a table, usually provided before or after a ceremonial wedding performed by a friend or religious minister. We can attend the wedding at a full wedding ceremony cost.

Question 4

What are your current fees?

Accepted Answer

Our current fees (including GST) are listed on our pricing page with optional Witness Service as two witnesses are required for your paperwork, plus we can order the Official Marriage Certificate on your behalf. Plus we offer an After Hours Service at extra cost (before 9am/after 5pm). We accept all major credit cards, and PayID.

Question 5

How does your simple marriage service differ from a traditional wedding?

Accepted Answer

Our simple marriage service focuses solely on meeting legal requirements - completing and signing the necessary documentation with witnesses present. The process typically takes 5-10 minutes to say the required 120 words and sign the paperwork and doesn't include traditional ceremony elements.

Question 6

Do we need to arrange witnesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Australian law requires two witnesses aged 18 or over. We offer a professional witness service for an additional fee if needed.

Question 7

Can we marry on the same day we lodge our NOIM?

Accepted Answer

No, Australian marriage law mandates a one-month waiting period from NOIM lodgement. This can only be waived by obtaining a shortening of time from a prescribed authority.

Question 8

Must we sign the NOIM together?

Accepted Answer

No, you can sign separately with different witnesses at different times. The one-month waiting period begins once one party's signature has been witnessed by an authorised person and received by the celebrant.

Question 9

Which name should I use on the NOIM if I've changed my name?

Accepted Answer

You must use your current legal name, supported by official documentation (birth certificate, change of name certificate, or marriage certificate).

Question 10

What are the requirements for non-English documents?

Accepted Answer

All documents in languages other than English must be translated by a NAATI-accredited translator. Both the original documents and certified translations must be presented.

Question 11

When do we receive our marriage certificate?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive a commemorative certificate on your paperwork signing day. The official certificate must be ordered separately through the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages and we can assist with this.

Question 12

Is it necessary for both parties to sign the NOIM for the one-month notice period?

Accepted Answer

No, if one party cannot sign the NOIM before the one-month period, one party's signature is sufficient to commence the waiting period.

Question 13

Where can we hold our simple marriage service?

Accepted Answer

We can conduct the service at: your home, local cafes, parks, your chosen venue, or anywhere throughout Brisbane, including the CBD, South Bank, New Farm, West End, and Greater Brisbane regions (travel fees may apply for locations outside metropolitan Brisbane).

Question 14

How do we proceed if one party lives overseas?

Accepted Answer

You can lodge your NOIM from overseas by having it witnessed by an Australian Consular Officer, Australian Diplomatic Officer, or notary public in your country of residence. But if one party resides in Australia their single witnessed signature is enough to begin the one month waiting period.

Question 15

Can the one-month notice period be reduced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only in exceptional circumstances and after: 1) Lodging your NOIM with us, 2) Applying to a prescribed authority with substantial evidence, 3) Receiving authority approval. Approval is never guaranteed and requires genuine exceptional circumstances.

Question 16

What's the process for changing names after marriage?

Accepted Answer

Your official marriage certificate from the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages can be used to update your name with most organisations. Some institutions may require additional documentation.

Question 17

How long does official marriage certificate processing take?

Accepted Answer

Standard processing through the Queensland Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages typically takes 10-15 business days after your marriage registration is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should we lodge our Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)?

What documentation do we need to provide with our NOIM?

Will we attend your wedding?

What are your current fees?