1. Bride and groom declare they are over the age of 18 years, not legally married to someone else and are not directly related to each other. Bride and groom then sign these declarations.
   
   
2. Bride and groom exchange marriage vows, for example, do you take this man/woman to be your lawful husband/wife? Bride and groom then exchange wedding rings (if desired).
   
   
3. The Certificate of Marriage is signed by the bride, groom and the two witnesses.
   
   
4. At the conclusion of the ceremony the Certificate of Marriage is presented to the husband and wife.
   

           Day of Ceremony

Dress

• It is suggested the bride and groom and their guests observe a standard of dress appropriate to the occasion.
  
  

Witnesses

• Bride and groom must arrange for two witnesses who can speak and understand English, and are at least 18 years of age, to be present at the ceremony.
  

Important

• The Registry does not supply witnesses — also, if there are any interpreters present, they must be independent of the witnesses. Ensure two witnesses are arranged as the marriage cannot take place without them.
  
  
• The Registry does not supply interpreters. If agreed at your initial interview that an interpreter is required for the bride and/or groom, then the parties must arrange for this, otherwise the ceremony cannot take place.
  
  
• Please be punctual — it is essential the wedding party arrive 15 minutes before the appointed time for the ceremony and advise Reception of their arrival.
  
  
• No confetti or rice is allowed within the building. Consumption of alcohol on the Registry's premises is also prohibited.
  
  

           Penalties

A person guilty of an offence against the Commonwealth Marriage Act, 1961, is liable to a heavy penalty. Penalties include imprisonment and/or fines of up to $500 and $1,000 for such offences as:

• A person who is married shall not go through a form of ceremony of marriage with any person, section 94(1).
• A person shall not go through a form of marriage ceremony with a person who is not of marriageable age, section 95(1).
• A person shall not wilfully make a false statement in a declaration under the Commonwealth Marriage Act, 1961, section 96(1).