The Marriage Act 1961 and Regulations

Marriage celebrant—obligations and responsibilities

Being a celebrant is a special and important role in the community. It also attracts serious obligations and legal responsibilities. Failure to meet those responsibilities can have serious consequences.

This page outlines some important information about the role of a Commonwealth-authorised marriage celebrant.

All-authorised marriage celebrants (Commonwealth celebrants, Recognised Religious celebrants and State Registry Marriage Officers) must:

• solemnise marriages under the Marriage Act 1961 and Marriage Regulations 1963

Commonwealth-authorised marriage celebrant must also:

• conduct themselves in accordance with The Code of practice for marriage celebrants
• comply with their ongoing professional development obligations
• pay an annual registration fee to the government of $240 pa