Josh Withers · Marriage Laws · 2 min read
Things people often get wrong on their NOIM form
This form is a really important pre-marriage form that starts your one month "cooling off" notice period but so many people get it wrong
Essential Guide to Marriage Paperwork in Australia: A Celebrant’s Perspective
As a marriage celebrant, I know how crucial accurate paperwork is for a smooth wedding process. Getting it right the first time prevents unnecessary back-and-forth between couples, celebrants, and the Births, Deaths, and Marriages department.
The most important document you’ll needto fill out before you get married is the Notice of Intended Marriage form (NOIM), which must be submitted to your celebrant at least one month before your ceremony.
Some people think it’s a marriage license, others call it the cooling off period form, either way it’s got to be filled out correctly and with me or your celebrant before one month before your wedding.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to filling it out correctly:
Celebrant Use Section
- This section is for the celebrant’s personal notes only
- Don’t worry if it’s blank or not totally correct.
Personal Details
- Names: Use exactly as they appear on your passport or birth certificate/driver’s license
- Occupation: List your actual job title (e.g., “Manager” not “Management,” “Administration Assistant” not “Admin”)
- Address: Must be your current residential address, even if you’re planning to move soon
- Conjugal Status: Options are “never validly married,” “divorced,” “widowed,” or “divorce pending”
- Birthplace: Use the specific location from your birth certificate or passport (e.g., “South Brisbane” rather than just “Brisbane”)
Family Information
- Parents’ Names: Include full names (first, middle, last) both at birth and currently
- Previous Marriages: Pay special attention to the end date of previous marriages
- For divorces, use the final date when the divorce became absolute, not the initial court date
Signatures and Witnesses
- Must be signed in front of an authorized witness
- Recommended witnesses: Marriage celebrant or Justice of the Peace (JP)
- Check the approved witness list carefully
- Note: The witness list for the NOIM differs from the statutory declaration witness list
Required Documentation Your celebrant will need to verify:
- Primary Option: Current passport
- Alternative Option: Original birth certificate AND driver’s license
- For previously married individuals: Documentation proving the end of prior marriage(s)
If you’re unsure about any documentation requirements, please consult with me or your celebrant directly.
This guide aims to make the process smoother for everyone involved. Getting these details right from the start helps ensure your special day proceeds without administrative hiccups.
📂 Download a blank Notice of Intended Marriage form
