For detailed information about how to become a Marriage Celebrant, visit www.ag.gov.au
How to Become a Wedding Celebrant
Many people are attracted to becoming a wedding celebrant (or marriage celebrant) because of the joy they witness in ceremonies when marrying couples. Celebrants work professionally and with heart, designing ceremonies that are legally valid and enjoyable to be a part of.
It is important when you are considering becoming a celebrant that you research the best place to do your training. Here are a few things to look out for:
- A registered training organisation (RTO) where you can complete a Certificate IV in Celebrancy
- Quality trainers who have bios with extensive backgrounds in being a wedding celebrant and business.
- A year to complete your course
- An inclusive approach to students
- Longevity in the celebrancy training field
- Ongoing training and support opportunities for professional development
What does it mean to be a marriage celebrant?
To legally marry people in Australia, you must be an authorised marriage celebrant. There are four types of authorised marriage celebrants:
- Commonwealth registered marriage celebrants
- Commonwealth registered religious marriage celebrants
- Ministers of religion, who are registered with the state and territory registries of births, deaths and marriages
- State and territory officers
What qualifications do i need to be a marriage celebrant?
To apply for registration as a marriage celebrant, you must have either:
- A certificate IV in celebrancy from a registered training organisation (RTO)
- A qualification in celebrancy, awarded by a university specified in the Marriage Determination 2018
- Skills in celebrancy:
- Fluency in an Australian Indigenous language and the ability to liaise with clients and other members of the Indigenous community if appropriate, in planning a marriage ceremony
- Ability to conduct a marriage ceremony and to complete and deal with the required documentation in accordance with the Marriage Act and Marriage Regulations
- Effective communication
What are the rules for marriage celebrants?
To be a Commonwealth registered marriage celebrant, you must follow the rules in the Marriage Act 1961 and Marriage Regulations 2017. You can also refer to the guidelines for marriage celebrants which may help you understand your responsibilities.
Rules about religion
You cannot discriminate against marrying couples based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Sex
- Gender
Ongoing professional development
Marriage celebrants must complete 5 hours on ongoing professional development (OPD) every year, which includes activities set by the Attorney General’s Department and activities you choose.
Apply to be a marriage celebrant
When you have received your Certificate IV in Celebrancy you can complete the online application form on the Attorney General’s Department website.
Until you are a Commonwealth registered marriage celebrant you cannot accept a notice of intended marriage or solemnise marriage ceremonies, or advertise your services.
Find out more about becoming a wedding celebrant here: ag.gov.au