You’re swiping right on Tinder, matching with someone who’s not only got a great sense of humour but also seems like the perfect partner. Sparks fly, emojis are exchanged, and love is in the digital air. But hold your horses! Before you start planning your online wedding, here’s the scoop: Online marriages simply can’t happen in the land down under, Australia (yet).
Let’s take a fun-filled dive into the world of online marriages and why they just don’t fly in Australia.
The Legal Requirements Down Under Australia
Australia has some rather strict legal requirements when it comes to tying the knot. To get married in our sunny paradise, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old (unless a court has approved a marriage for a younger party).
- Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage form with your chosen celebrant at least one calendar month before the big day.
- Provide original documents as proof of identity, citizenship, and freedom to marry.
- Have two witnesses, over the age of 18, physically present at your ceremony.
- Use an authorised celebrant or minister to officiate the wedding.
- Exchange legal vows in person.
These requirements are set in stone to ensure the validity and legality of the marriage. The act of exchanging vows in person with a qualified celebrant or minister is crucial to the Australian government, making it impossible to marry online.
The Marriage Act of 1961
Australia’s Marriage Act of 1961 is the ultimate trump card against online marriages. This act clearly states that a marriage is the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life. It’s a clear and traditional definition that has not evolved to include online or virtual marriages.
The act also prescribes the process for marriages, including the lodgement of notices, the presence of witnesses, and the involvement of a registered celebrant. So, even if you wanted to, you couldn’t legally marry online in Australia.
Celebrants – In Person, Not Pixels
In Australia, authorised marriage celebrants play a significant role in the wedding process. They’re the ones who conduct the ceremony, ensure all legal requirements are met, and make it all official. Celebrants are all about human connection, helping couples celebrate their love in a unique and personal way. Aside from wanting to be there in person to share the special day with the couple, they’re required to be physically present.
Who Doesn’t Love a Good Party?
Aussies are known for their love of a good time. Be it a barbecue in the backyard, a day at the beach, or a wedding – we want to celebrate together. And an online marriage simply doesn’t cut it when it comes to throwing a killer celebration! A wedding is not just the union of two souls; it’s an excuse to have a legendary party! We love to go all out to ensure their guests have a fantastic time. So, a virtual wedding ceremony is a no-go when the love for real-life gatherings runs deep.
Getting married is a big deal in Australia, often with family and friends taking an active part in the celebration. From being in the wedding party, to giving heartfelt speeches, friendship and fun is an integral part of any Aussie wedding.
While online dating and relationships are thriving in Australia, the idea of online marriages, at the moment, is a big “no-can-do.” We love a good party, value personal connections, and have legal requirements in place that simply make online marriages impossible. The Marriage Act of 1961 and the need for authorised marriage celebrants (or ministers) in person ensure that the charm and legalities of ceremonies remains intact.
So, while you might find love online in Australia, remember that the journey from “match” to “marriage” will involve real-life interactions, legal formalities, and the fun-filled vibe that makes weddings truly special.
