Legal Requirements
Marriage law is federal in Australia — the rules are the same regardless of which state you marry in. But registration and name changes are handled by your state's BDM.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Notice of Intended Marriage | At least 1 month + 1 day before the ceremony |
| Maximum notice period | 18 months before the ceremony |
| Minimum age | 18 (16–17 with court permission) |
| Who can marry you | Registered marriage celebrant, minister of religion, or registry officer |
| Witnesses | 2 witnesses aged 18+ |
Changing Your Name After Marriage
Getting married doesn't automatically change your name. If you want to take your partner's surname (or double-barrel), you need to update your name with each organisation separately, using your marriage certificate as evidence.
Update in this order: birth certificate (optional), passport, driver's licence, Medicare, bank accounts, employer, ATO, electoral roll, super fund, insurance, utilities.
Get your marriage certificate from ACT Births, Deaths and Marriages: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/births-deaths-and-marriages-tab-overview
Financial Checklist After Marriage
- Update your tax file — tell the ATO your marital status has changed (affects Medicare Levy Surcharge thresholds and family tax benefits)
- Update super beneficiaries — your spouse should now be your binding death benefit nomination
- Update your will — or make one if you don't have one
- Review health insurance — combine to a couples/family policy (may be cheaper)
- Notify Centrelink — your payment rates may change as a couple
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance do you need to lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage?
At least 1 month + 1 day before the ceremony, and no more than 18 months. This can be shortened in exceptional circumstances by a court.
Does getting married automatically change my name?
No. Marriage gives you the legal right to use your partner's surname, but you need to update your name with each organisation individually using your marriage certificate.
How do I get a marriage certificate in ACT?
Apply through ACT Births, Deaths and Marriages after the ceremony. Your celebrant submits the paperwork; you apply separately for the certificate. https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/s/article/births-deaths-and-marriages-tab-overview