Yes—same-sex marriages are fully legal and recognised in Australia.

Marriage equality became law on 9 December 2017, following overwhelming public support and a parliamentary vote to amend the Marriage Act 1961. The definition of marriage was updated to:

“the union of 2 people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.”

This means that:

• Same-sex couples have the same legal rights and responsibilities as heterosexual couples

• They can marry anywhere in Australia with an authorised celebrant

• Overseas same-sex marriages are recognised in Australia, if they were legal in the country where they took place

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🌈 Important to know:

• There is no difference in ceremony structure or legal requirements

• All authorised celebrants must offer their services equally, except for certain religious celebrants, who may lawfully refuse on grounds of belief