Can I Get Married Online?

The Short Answer: No.

Australian law requires that marriages must be conducted with both parties physically present at the same place, along with your celebrant and two witnesses. You cannot get legally married in Newcastle (or anywhere in Australia) via video call, online, or by proxy.

What the Law Says

The Marriage Act 1961 requires that:

  • Both parties must be physically present at the marriage ceremony
  • A Commonwealth-registered celebrant must perform the ceremony in person
  • Two witnesses (aged 18 or over) must be physically present
  • All parties must sign physical marriage documents
  • The ceremony must take place at a physical location in Australia

What You Can Do Online

While you cannot get married online, many aspects of the marriage process can be completed digitally:

Before the Ceremony

Our digital services allow you to:

  • Book your marriage service through our secure website
  • Submit your Notice of Intended Marriage documentation electronically
  • Process secure payments online
  • Conduct consultation meetings with your celebrant via video call
  • Complete necessary pre-marriage paperwork (NOIM)
  • Plan your ceremony details from anywhere in the world

After the Ceremony

Following your ceremony, you can:

  • Order your official marriage certificate through NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages online
  • Update your details with various organisations
  • Access your official documentation digitally

International Couples

If you’re planning to marry in Newcastle while currently overseas:

We understand that Newcastle’s beautiful coastal setting and vibrant culture make it an attractive wedding destination. While you must be physically present for the ceremony, you can:

  • Begin the process remotely from your current location
  • Submit your Notice of Intended Marriage from overseas
  • Have documents witnessed at an Australian embassy, consulate, or notary public
  • Secure your ceremony date
  • Plan everything via email or video call
  • Arrange local accommodation and travel
  • Coordinate with Newcastle-based services

Looking for a Simple Marriage Option?

While online marriage isn’t possible, we offer straightforward, simple marriage services that:

Our Newcastle CBD office provides convenient ceremonies that:

  • Take minimal time (usually 10-15 minutes)
  • Can be conducted in our modern Newcastle office
  • Are available 7 days by appointment
  • Require minimal preparation
  • Are easily accessible via public transport or car
  • Can be arranged at short notice (after the mandatory NOIM period)
  • Offer stunning harbour views from our ceremony room

Alternative Options

If you can’t be physically present in Newcastle yet:

We can help you:

  1. Initiate the paperwork process online
  2. Plan your visit to Newcastle and the Hunter region
  3. Choose from our flexible ceremony times
  4. Combine your ceremony with exploring Newcastle’s attractions
  5. Utilise our witness service if needed
  6. Arrange accommodation with our partner hotels

Important Reminders

Be aware that:

  • Any website claiming to offer legal online marriages in Australia is not legitimate
  • All legal marriages in Australia must be conducted in person
  • NSW has no provision for proxy marriages
  • Video ceremonies are not legally binding
  • Both parties must be physically present in the same location

Our Services to Make It Easy

We provide:

  • Convenient Newcastle CBD location near public transport
  • Flexible appointment times seven days a week
  • Quick, simple ceremonies with harbour views
  • Professional handling of all paperwork
  • Witness service when required
  • Clear guidance throughout the process
  • Comprehensive documentation support
  • Easy access to all services
  • Local reception venue recommendations

Need More Information?

Contact us to discuss:

  • Various ceremony options
  • Newcastle location choices
  • Timing possibilities
  • Documentation requirements
  • Travel arrangements to Newcastle
  • Local accommodation options
  • Transport connections
  • Hunter Valley wine region possibilities
  • Beachside ceremony locations

Remember: While many aspects of marriage can be arranged online, the legal ceremony must be conducted in person. We’re here to make this process as simple and convenient as possible at our Newcastle location, where you can enjoy our city’s beautiful harbour views and coastal charm while completing your legal marriage requirements.

Get married at The Marriage Office

Quick & easy marriage ceremonies in Newcastle + the Hunter Valley