The signing at the end of your ceremony is a joyful moment, but it is not the final administrative step. Your celebrant has a legal responsibility after the wedding, and you may have a few decisions of your own once the marriage is registered.
Your celebrant sends the paperwork
After you, your spouse, the celebrant and your two witnesses sign the marriage certificates, the celebrant gives you the couple’s certificate. They then send the official registration paperwork to the births, deaths and marriages registry in the state or territory where the marriage took place. This must happen within 14 days of the marriage.
Apply for the official certificate when you need it
The certificate you receive on the day is a special record of the ceremony. When an organisation asks for formal proof of marriage, you will usually need an official certificate issued by the registry. You might need it for a name change, passport, bank, superannuation, insurance or other records. Ask your celebrant if they offer to arrange one or apply directly to the relevant registry after registration.
Decide what to update and when
There is no rule that you must change your name after marriage. If you choose to, make a list of the organisations that matter to you and work through them at a pace that suits your life. Check each organisation’s requirements before sending documents, especially if you have overseas records or a name history that needs careful matching.
Keep your documents secure
Store your certificate from the day and any official registry certificate somewhere safe. They are important identity documents. A photograph is useful for reference, but check whether an organisation needs to see an original or certified copy.
For current registration and official-certificate information, see the Australian Government guide and your state or territory registry.