can a friend marry you in australia?

This is one of the most common questions I get, thanks to the many movies and tv shows depicting someone getting “ordained” in minutes online and being able to marry their friends that same day.

unfortunately, the law in australia doesn’t allow for this, and becoming a commonwealth registered celebrant that can legally solemnise marriages takes approximately one year, maybe more.

so in short, no, your friend cannot legally marry you. however, there’s a workaround…

anyone can write and deliver a “ceremony”, you’ll just need an authorised celebrant to be their co-pilot for the legal stuff (and paperwork). easy! if you like, we can even provide some guidance on structure and flow, since we know what works, but your friend can add their own special flair. it’s a beautiful personalisation to have if you’ve got someone in mind.

You don’t have to choose between legal and meaningful. You can have both — with the right setup and the right celebrant on your team.