COVID 19 and Weddings in Australia

What does COVID 19 mean for my wedding?

I have been receiving a number of queries regarding COVID 19 and couples’ weddings, can I post pone, reschedule, cancel, bring forward; what does COVID 19 mean for my wedding.

This is a stressful time for couples who may be facing uncertainty in so many areas of their lives, their health, their wellbeing and their economic situation. Many face potentially losing 1000s in payments already made against their wedding. Luckily I am seeing the wedding industry band together and support everyone including their couples.

I am very happy to take cancellations and reschedules without loss of deposit in this time. I have already spoken to my couples with weddings that had been planned for the upcoming months and most have been able to reschedule with their venues which is fantastic to hear. I am very much looking forward to those days!

What is the official response from the government regarding Weddings in Australia and COVID 19?

In response to COVID-19, the Governments of Australia are meeting on a regular basis as a National Cabinet and implementing measures to combat the spread of the virus.

In the measures announced by the Prime Minister on 24 March 2020, which will take effect from 11.59 Wednesday 25 March, the solemnisation of a marriage is to occur with a maximum attendance of no more than five people, being the two parties, the authorised marriage celebrant, and the two witnesses. Social distancing of 1 person per 4 square metres is to be enforced. This applies to marriages both indoors and outdoors.

There are also questions regarding whether requirements in the Marriage Act 1961 will be relaxed during this time. For example, whether a marriage can be solemnised remotely eg via Skype. The answer is no. All marriages still need to be solemnised in accordance with the Marriage Act, without exception. A marriage must be solemnised in the physical presence of an authorised celebrant and two witnesses.

Shortening of time requests need to be directed to prescribed authorities – the list is available here. Circumstances for authorising marriages despite late notice are set out in Schedule 3 of the Marriage Regulations 2017.

Please don’t hesitate to let me know any questions or if I can help in any way during these uncertain and worrying times.

Stay safe everyone and reminder to be kind

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photo credit: Just B Photography