Last updated date: 13 September, 2021
Photo by Renae Harvey Photography
Here at Easy Weddings, we’re continually monitoring the impact of coronavirus on the Australian wedding industry.
Throughout this challenging time, the thing we’ve heard most from couples and wedding vendors alike is how hard it is to stay up to date with the latest government regulations and rules for hosting a COVID-Safe wedding in Australia.
In response, we’ve developed the following COVID Wedding Restrictions Tracker for couples and industry pros. This page will be updated twice a week — on Mondays and Thursdays — with the latest state-by-state announcements and developments.
We hope you’ll join us in following and promoting the latest COVID-Safe wedding practices so that we can all get back to celebrating as soon as possible.
Here at Easy Weddings, we’re continually monitoring the impact of coronavirus on the Australian wedding industry.
Throughout this challenging time, the thing we’ve heard most from couples and wedding vendors alike is how hard it is to stay up to date with the latest government regulations and rules for hosting a COVID-Safe wedding in Australia.
In response, we’ve developed the following COVID Wedding Restrictions Tracker for couples and industry pros. This page will be updated twice a week — on Mondays and Thursdays — with the latest state-by-state announcements and developments.
We hope you’ll join us in following and promoting the latest COVID-Safe wedding practices so that we can all get back to celebrating as soon as possible.
VICTORIA LOCKDOWN FROM 8PM 5/8/21
Greater Melbourne and Greater Shepparton are in lockdown. There are only 5 reasons to leave home. Weddings are not permitted unless for end of life or deportation reasons. Then, only 5 people are allowed – the couple, two witnesses and the officiant.
Regional Victoria (excluding Greater Shepparton), as at 10/9/21, is easing restrictions. Weddings are permitted with up to 10 people.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc.):
No maximum and no caps on weddings held indoors or outdoors at a venue, providing it’s not more than 1 person per 2 square metres.
Private Weddings (Home):
100 visitors – excluding occupants and those required to conduct the ceremony.
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING: Required. From 28 May 2021, venues and businesses required to do electronic record keeping must use the Victorian Government QR Code Service through the Service Victoria app.
DISTANCING/PHYSICAL SPACE: Yes, social distancing.
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Must follow current hospitality restrictions.
1.5m distanced between tables. No maximum persons per table.
Standing food and beverage service permitted. Shared plates permitted as long as they are shared within a group at the same table.
Self-service buffet-style food service areas, cutlery and glass stations, and communal drink and condiment stations are not permitted.
DANCING: No caps.
LIVE MUSIC: Requirement of 5m distance from the audience, and 2m between performers. Recommend live music performed outdoors where possible.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Permitted. The photographer/videographer is not included in the 100 guest count for private residence weddings or in the square metre rule for public weddings.
MASK RULES: Must be carried at all times. Must be worn in rideshares and taxis.
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: All travellers into Victoria are required to apply for a permit based on the traffic light system.
Other Links: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/religion-and-ceremony
NSW LOCKDOWN:
New South Wales is in a state-wide lockdown. Wedding ceremonies (only) can proceed in some circumstances and are limited to a maximum of 11 people including:
However, wedding receptions are banned.
To see what the rules are for your area, visit nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules and click on ‘Greater Sydney‘, ‘Local government areas of concern‘ or ‘Regional and rural NSW‘. Then, click on ‘Worship, weddings and funerals’.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc.):
No caps. Weddings held at a venue subject to 1 person per 2 sqm or 25 people.
Private Weddings (Home):
No caps. If there are more than 100 people in a home, a COVID-Safety plan must be in place and electronic record-keeping done.
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes, all vendors/suppliers must be registered as COVID-safe businesses
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Seated food and beverage service only. No shared utensils, platters, canapes, and buffets
DANCING: No caps.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Social distancing
MASK RULES:
Not mandatory but recommended ride-share situations and where distancing can’t be maintained.
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/covid-safe/wedding-ceremonies-and-receptions
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Venues: Up to 200 people OR 1 person per 2sqm OR 100% capacity at a venue that’s ticketed and has allocated seating – whichever is greatest.
Private residence weddings where there is no COVID Safe Plan: Up to 100 people including the couple.
Public outdoor wedding ceremonies: No limit
COVID SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: The Check-in QLD app is mandatory for indoor weddings.
DISTANCING/PHYSICAL SPACE: 1 person per 2 sqm if electronic record keeping is used. Otherwise, it’s 1 person per 4 sqm.
DANCING: Permitted. 1 person per 2 sqm.
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Standing and seated eating are permitted under a COVID-Safe Event Plan. The cake used for the ceremonial cutting of cake should not be served to guests. Buffets are allowed.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Social distancing
MASK RULES: Required if you live in or have visited one of the South East QLD LGAs in the last 14 days. Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim.
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Links: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/business-activity
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc): No limit
Private Weddings (Home): No limit
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: 500 people require local government approval + approved COVID Event Plan. Staff and celebrants are excluded from the total number.
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes
DISTANCING/PHYSICAL SPACE: No capacity limits. 1.5 metres recommended.
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Alcohol can be served as part of unseated service arrangements.
DANCING: No restrictions
PHOTOGRAPHY: No restrictions
MASK RULES: N/A
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/wa
SA LEVEL 1 RESTRICTIONS:
Private function weddings: Invitation-only events at licensed premises with no outside access. Up to 150 people. Dancing limited to the bridal party.
Private activity weddings: Held at a venue like a privately hired hall or commercial farm, that’s not normally used for a defined activity and that’s not a licensed premises or private home. Up to 50 people. Dancing is permitted.
Private residence weddings: Limited to 20 people.
For more info on density limits, seated vs standing rules, mask rules, food service and singing, visit the Health Direct website here.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Private (home) weddings: 200 people
Public indoor weddings: 200 people
Outdoor (park) weddings with a celebrant: 200 people
Outdoor (park) weddings with a priest: No cap as long as there’s no more than 3 people per 4 sqm.
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes
DISTANCING/PHYSICAL SPACE: 3 people per 4 square metres (about 75% of the venue’s capacity.)
FOOD & BEVERAGE: No shared utensils may be provided in the course of providing the service of any food or beverages. No communal food or beverage service areas may operate, this includes buffets, salad bars, or communal water/beverage dispensers
Food and beverages may be consumed standing up.
DANCING: Permitted.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Social distancing required
MASK RULES: Strongly encouraged if a 1.5m distance can’t be maintained.
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/restrictions-and-responsibilities/activities-and-gatherings
ACT LOCKDOWN
ACT is in lockdown. All weddings are limited to 10 people including the couple and two witnesses – but excluding the celebrant.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc): 500 people excluding staff with 1 person per 2 sqm indoors and outdoors (provided Check In CBR app is used.)
Private Weddings (Home): No restriction
COVID SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes
DISTANCING/ PHYSICAL SPACE: 1 person per 2 sqm in each usable space. Usable spaces exclude stages, restrooms, display areas, staff-only areas.
FOOD & BEVERAGE: Buffets and self-serve food and beverage areas are prohibited. Alcohol consumed indoors must be done sitting down.
DANCING: Permitted. But consider limiting close dancing to the wedding party only.
PHOTOGRAPHY: No restrictions
LIVE MUSIC: Singers must distance 2 metres from other each other, band members and guests.
MASK RULES: Mandatory until 10/7/21.
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/act
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc): No restriction
Private Weddings (Home): No restriction
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes
DISTANCING/PHYSICAL SPACE: 1.5 metres
FOOD & BEVERAGE: No restrictions
DANCING: No restrictions
PHOTOGRAPHY: No restrictions
MASK RULES: N/A
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/nt
NUMBER OF GUESTS:
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc): 250 people (indoor), 1000 people (outdoor). Includes the bridal party, wedding officials, children and babies.
Private Weddings (Home): 100 people. Includes the bridal party, celebrant, photographers, caterers and other wedding officials, but excludes people who live at the residence.
Large blocks of land are still considered residential if people live there.
COVID-SAFE PLAN REQUIRED: Yes
RECORD-KEEPING REQUIRED: Yes.
DISTANCING/ PHYSICAL SPACE: 1 person per 2 sqm
FOOD & BEVERAGE: No restriction
DANCING: Permitted. Up to 100 people can dance and drink standing up at indoor venues. Up to 250 people can dance and drink at outdoor venues.
PHOTOGRAPHY: No restrictions
MASK RULES: N/A
BORDER RESTRICTIONS: More info here.
Other Links: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/tas
Planning a COVID-Safe wedding? Staying on the pulse of your local government rules and regulations is critical to keeping you and your guests safe. We’ll do our best to keep you apprised of updates as they’re announced. You can sign up for our weekly newsletter for couples here, or join our wedding supplier network for vendor-specific announcements.
We also encourage you to keep in the loop of press conferences and updates from your local health officials. You can visit state-by-state announcements via Health Direct to discover the latest COVID wedding restrictions in VIC as well as COVID wedding rules in NSW, ACT, QLD, NT, SA, TAS & WA.
Easy Weddings is committed to bringing you the latest news as it relates to COVID-Safe weddings in VIC, NSW, ACT, SA, QLD, WA, NT, and TAS. We’ll be updating this page every Monday and Thursday morning by 11 am. We’re doing our best to keep ourselves and our industry informed of the latest wedding-related coronavirus news, but there may be a delay between government announcements being made and our updates.
Get our latest updates here. You can also sign up for our weekly couples’ newsletter to receive updates directly to your inbox.
Having a COVID Safety Plan in place is a requirement in most Australian states. In VIC, NSW, QLD and SA, it’s required that hosts record attendee details for contact tracing purposes. Of course, for couples, it’s very likely that you’ll have your wedding guests’ info readily available. Wedding suppliers, vendors and contractors should also provide couples with the contact tracing details of any staff members that will be on-site.
Each state in Australia has a different plan in place for managing coronavirus wedding restrictions. For more info on your state’s rules, please refer to the relevant section above for details. A government source we’ve found useful is Health Direct’s COVID-19 Restrictions Checker by State.
It depends on your state’s restrictions and your venue’s COVID Safety Plans and postponement policies.
Across Victoria, many couples have postponed their weddings to mid or late 2021, some into 2022.
In many places, popular wedding dates are in high demand, appealing to both the couples who are newly engaged and those who are postponing their weddings. What does that mean if you haven’t yet booked your wedding package, venue or suppliers? You could face difficulty setting a date in the earlier months of 2021, as demand is at an all-time high, especially in states that have been hit by COVID.
Our team of wedding planners throughout Australia make planning a wedding during coronavirus easier, as they know what venues have COVID Safety Plans in place and what availability is like across various venues.
Your wedding invitations will need to include a little extra info this year to put your guests at ease. We’ve addressed all your COVID wedding invitation concerns in this article about how to write invitations right now.
If you’re hosting your wedding at an established venue, the events manager or coordinator should be up to date with the latest local rules and regulations. They typically take on enforcing those rules with suppliers and guests as well as educating their couples about any new restrictions.
Reach out to your venue and your suppliers to coordinate any amendments to your wedding plans and ensure you’re all practising within the latest guidelines.
Across the wedding industry, many suppliers and venues are taking on the additional costs of extra cleaning supplies and extra staffing needed for COVID-Safe weddings.
However, some couples might opt to add small things like customised masks for their guests or extra hand sanitiser that’s branded with the wedding logo.
Larger investments might include moving your wedding to an outdoor wedding venue and bringing in an open-air marquee.
Most venues and suppliers will cover this in their COVID wedding safety agreement or waiver. Usually, it’s the couple who is on the hook for any fines that might be incurred due to not following the local rules. The venue will usually be responsible for breaking up any activity at the wedding that’s deemed unsafe.
It depends on your state’s advice, but it’s usually a safety checklist and guidebook to outline things like contact tracing, hygiene practices, dining rules and dancing restrictions. Most venues will be across these plans.
Here’s more information on COVID Safety Plans for weddings in NSW, QLD, NT, ACT, TAS, SA, and WA.
VICTORIA LOCKDOWN FROM 8PM 5/8/21
Greater Melbourne is in lockdown. There are only 5 reasons to leave home. Weddings are not permitted unless for end of life or deportation reasons. Then, only 5 people are allowed – the couple, two witnesses and the officiant.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
In COVID-normal times, there are no caps on the number of attendees indoors or outdoors at weddings held at a venue or public space in Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria.
Weddings held in the home or private residence are be capped at 100 attendees not including those required to conduct the wedding.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/vic
VICTORIA LOCKDOWN:
Greater Shepparton is in lockdown. There are only 5 reasons to leave home. Weddings are not permitted unless for end of life or deportation reasons. Then, only 5 people are allowed – the couple, two witnesses and the officiant.
Regional Victoria (excluding Shepparton) is easing restrictions. Weddings can proceed with 10 people.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
In COVID-normal times, there are no caps on the number of attendees indoors or outdoors at weddings held at a venue or public space in Metropolitan Melbourne and Regional Victoria.
Weddings held in the home or private residence are capped at 100 attendees not including those required to conduct the wedding.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/vic
NSW LOCKDOWN:
New South Wales is in a state-wide lockdown. Wedding ceremonies (only) can proceed in some circumstances and are limited to a maximum of 11 people including:
However, wedding receptions are banned.
To see what the rules are for your area, visit nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules and click on ‘Greater Sydney‘, ‘Local government areas of concern‘ or ‘Regional and rural NSW‘. Then, click on ‘Worship, weddings and funerals’.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
There are no caps on guest numbers held at a venue, except that capacity mustn’t be greater than 1 person per 2 square metres, or 25 people.
If more than 100 people are in a private residence, a COVID-Safety plan must be in place and records kept electronically.
Dancing and singing is permitted. There are no caps on dance floors.
Masks are not mandatory but recommended in ride-share situations and where distancing can’t be maintained.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/nsw
Weddings held at a public venue with a COVID-Safe plan in Queensland are permitted allowed with the following capacities:
In a private home or residence, where there is no COVID Safe Plan, weddings are capped at 100 people including the couple.
In a public outdoor space with a COVID-Safe Plan, wedding ceremonies permitted – no cap.
Dancing is permitted – 1 person per 2 sqm.
Buffets are allowed.
Masks are required to be worn indoors and outdoors for anyone who lives in one of the South East QLD LGAs (or has visited one in the last 14 days.)
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/qld
Weddings in Perth and WA may proceed without capacity limits.
Dancing is permitted.
Masks are not required.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/wa
SA LEVEL 1 RESTRICTIONS:
Private function weddings: Invitation-only events at licensed premises with no outside access. Up to 150 people. Dancing limited to the bridal party.
Private activity weddings: Held at a venue like a privately hired hall or commercial farm, that’s not normally used for a defined activity and that’s not a licensed premises or private home. Up to 50 people. Dancing is permitted.
Private residence weddings: Limited to 20 people.
For more info on density limits, seated vs standing rules, mask rules, food service and singing, visit the Health Direct website here.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
Weddings in South Australia are limited to 200 people and capacity in a venue to 3 people per 4 square metres – around 75%.
Dancing is allowed as is the consumption of food and beverages standing up.
Communal food areas such as buffets is banned.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/sa
Public Weddings (Venues, Parks, etc): 200 people. 1 person per 2 sqm.
Private Weddings (Home): 50 people
Yes, outdoor weddings of up to 1,000 attendees are permitted; or up to 250 people indoors at an events venue. No more than one person per two square metres and dancing is permitted.
Backyard or at-home weddings are limited to 100 people, excluding those who live on the premises.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/tas
ACT LOCKDOWN
ACT is in lockdown. All weddings are limited to 10 people including the couple and two witnesses – but excluding the celebrant.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
Weddings in the Australian Capital Territory are capped at 500 people and must follow 1 person per 2 square metres providing the Check In CBR app is used to collect attendees’ details. Otherwise, 1 person per 4 square metres applies.
Dancing is allowed, but shared food stations such as buffets are not.
Source: https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/business-and-work/weddings
There are no limits on weddings in the Northern Territory, but the local government still requires physical distancing of 1.5 metres. Where possible, different groups should not be sitting face to face.
Source: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid19-restriction-checker/weddings-funerals-religions-services/nt
Articles About COVID-Safe Weddings
Whether you’re virtually streaming your wedding for all of your guests or those who can’t attend from overseas or out-of-state, here are some tips for streaming your wedding.
Communicating with your guests is especially important as COVID Safety rules are changing and as you make changes to your wedding plans. Here, our wedding planners share tips on how to communicate clearly with your wedding guests.
Articles About Planning A Wedding During COVID-19
Recently engaged? In this article, our wedding planner shares wedding planning tasks you can do in any stage of lockdown.
If you’re looking for styling and design tips for a small wedding, we’ve got you covered in this article. Here’s how to make an intimate wedding feel simply gorgeous.
Honouring your original wedding date (if you’ve had to postpone) is a great way to keep your spirits high during coronavirus.
Wellness Articles for Couples During Coronavirus
In this article, three top Australian wellness industry leaders share mindset hacks for couples during stressful times.
A licensed clinical psychologist shares tips on how to nurture your relationship during a global pandemic in this blog post.
Have you had to postpone your wedding because of coronavirus? You’re not alone! Here’s advice from other couples going through the same thing.
Not yet listed with Easy Weddings? You can sign up here.
While the wedding industry is beginning to recover from coronavirus in most Australian states, there is a mix of information about COVID-Safe weddings floating around the web.
As the upcoming weeks and months are likely to bring more announcements, press conferences and changes, we’ve launched this new COVID-19 Wedding Restriction Tracker to bring you the most relevant news from your state in a simple, visual format.
This page will be updated by 11 am Monday and Thursday to include any changes across each Australian state.
VICTORIA LOCKDOWN FROM 8PM 5/8/21
Greater Melbourne and Greater Shepparton are in lockdown. There are only 5 reasons to leave home. Weddings are not permitted unless for end of life or deportation reasons. Then, only 5 people are allowed – the couple, two witnesses and the officiant.
Regional Victoria (excluding Greater Shepparton), as at 10/9/21, is easing restrictions. Weddings are permitted with up to 10 people.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
VENUES: There are no longer be caps on weddings held at a venue (indoors or outdoors). Indoor and outdoor ceremonies may be conducted at the same time.
To support contact tracing, venues that host weddings must ask every person who’s on the premises for more than 15 minutes to provide their:
This includes staff. Organisers must also record the date and time at which the person was on site. Records can be digital or hard copy and should be kept for 28 days. Businesses and venues can use the Victorian Government’s free QR Code Service.
CELEBRANTS: Must remain 1.5m distance. The celebrant is not counted in the private residence cap of 100 visitors.
PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER: Permitted. The photographer/videographer is not included in the 100 guest count for private residence weddings or in the square metre rule for public weddings.
F&B (including cakes): Standing food and beverage service permitted. Share plates are permitted within a group at the same table. Self-service buffet-style food service areas, cutlery and glass stations, and communal drink and condiment stations must be removed, or access prevented. The number of condiments available on tables should be minimised where possible. Tables to be 1.5m apart with no maximum persons per table.
ENTERTAINMENT: Requirement of 5m distance from the audience, and 2m between performers. Recommend live music performed outdoors where possible.
DANCING: No caps.
TRANSPORT: Follow safe hygiene practices to protect yourself and passengers. Masks to be worn by drivers and passengers.
HAIR/MAKEUP: 1 person per 2sqm. Minimise personal contact with the customer.
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes
MASKS: Must be carried at all times. Must be worn in rideshares and taxis and when social distancing cannot be maintained.
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
RECORD-KEEPING: Required. Venues must keep electronic records through the Services Vic app or a government API-linked digital system.
OTHER: All vendors must keep records of clients for tracing
NSW LOCKDOWN:
New South Wales is in a state-wide lockdown. Wedding ceremonies (only) can proceed in some circumstances and are limited to a maximum of 11 people including:
However, wedding receptions are banned.
To see what the rules are for your area, visit nsw.gov.au/covid-19/rules and click on ‘Greater Sydney‘, ‘Local government areas of concern‘ or ‘Regional and rural NSW‘. Then, click on ‘Worship, weddings and funerals’.
NSW BUSINESS SUPPORT PACKAGES
Lastly, but importantly, we hope you’re all looking after your own mental health during this time. To speak with a Beyond Blue mental health counsellor, call 1800 512 348 or you can chat with a trained counsellor online 24/7.
You can also check your eligibility or book your COVID-19 vaccination here.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES
VENUES:
No caps on guest numbers. Weddings held at a venue subject to 1 person per 2 sqm or 25 people.
CELEBRANTS: No mask required during ceremony, 1.5m distance, Covid safe plan required.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Social distancing required
F&B (including cakes): Seated food and beverage service only. No shared utensils, platters, canapes, and buffets.
DANCING AND SINGING: No restrictions
TRANSPORT: Follow safe hygiene practices to protect yourself and passengers. Masks recommended.
HAIR/MAKEUP: 1 person per 2sqm. Minimise personal contact with the customer.
MASKS: Not mandatory but recommended ride-share situations and where distancing can’t be maintained.
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
VENUES: Up to 200 people OR 1 person per 2sqm OR 100% capacity at a venue that’s ticketed and has allocated seating – whichever is greatest.
CELEBRANTS: Social distancing required
PHOTOGRAPHER: Social distancing required
MASK RULES: Required in rideshare situations and where distancing can’t be maintained.
F&B (including cakes): Standing and seated eating are permitted under a COVID-Safe Event Plan. The cake used for the ceremonial cutting of cake should not be served to guests. Buffets are allowed.
ENTERTAINMENT: Social distancing required
DANCING: 1 person per 2 sqm
TRANSPORT: Social distancing. Passengers should choose seating positions that maximise the distance between them and the driver. Face masks are required.
HAIR/MAKEUP: Minimise personal contact with the customer
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes. Members of the same household are not required to physically distance.
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
RECORD KEEPING: The Check-in QLD app is mandatory for indoor weddings.
MASKS: Must be worn indoors and outdoors for those living in or have visited one of the South East QLD LGAs in the last 14 days. Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim.
VENUES: No limit. 500+ people require local government approval + approved COVID Event Plan. No distancing requirements.
CELEBRANTS: No restriction
PHOTOGRAPHER: No restriction
F&B (including cakes): Alcohol can be served as part of unseated service arrangements
ENTERTAINMENT: No restriction
DANCING: No restriction
TRANSPORT: Follow safe hygiene practices to protect yourself and passengers.
HAIR/MAKEUP: No capacity limits
SOCIAL DISTANCING: 1.5 metres recommended
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes – 500+ people
SA LEVEL 1 RESTRICTIONS:
Private function weddings: Invitation-only events at licensed premises with no outside access. Up to 150 people. Dancing limited to the bridal party.
Private activity weddings: Held at a venue like a privately hired hall or commercial farm, that’s not normally used for a defined activity and that’s not a licensed premises or private home. Up to 50 people. Dancing is permitted.
Private residence weddings: Limited to 20 people.
For more info on density limits, seated vs standing rules, mask rules, food service and singing, visit the Health Direct website here.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
VENUES: 200 people. 3 people per 4 square metres (around 75%)
CELEBRANTS: Social distancing required
PHOTOGRAPHER: Social distancing required
F&B (including cakes): No shared utensils. No communal food or beverage service areas including buffets, salad bars, or communal water/beverage dispensers.
Food and beverages may be consumed standing up.
ENTERTAINMENT: Social distancing required
DANCING: Permitted.
TRANSPORT: Follow safe hygiene practices to protect yourself and passengers.
HAIR/MAKEUP: 1 person per 2sqm. Minimise personal contact with the customer and wear appropriate PPE.
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
Other Links: Digital Contact Tracing for Weddings https://forms.sa.gov.au/#/form/5fb1fb9fad9c5820881d8528/app/5fbaf7d04d433123c4fec8b4
ACT LOCKDOWN
ACT is in lockdown. All weddings are limited to 10 people including the couple and two witnesses – but excluding the celebrant.
COVID-NORMAL TIMES:
VENUES: 500 people excluding staff with 1 person per 2 sqm indoors and outdoors (provided Check In CBR app is used.)
CELEBRANTS: Social distancing required
PHOTOGRAPHER: Social distancing required
F&B (including cakes): Buffets and self-serve food and beverage areas are prohibited.
ENTERTAINMENT: Singers must distance 2 metres from other each other, band members and guests.
DANCING: No hard restriction.
TRANSPORT: Masks required.
HAIR/MAKEUP: 1 person per 2sqm in each usable space. Minimise personal contact with the customer. Record all client details for tracing purposes. If services are conducted at your premises, CBR Checkin is mandatory for all clients 16 years and over.
SOCIAL DISTANCING: 1 person per 2 sqm in each usable space. Usable spaces exclude stages, restrooms, display areas, staff-only areas.
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
VENUES: No limit. Where possible, seating in venues should be arranged so that different groups aren’t seated face to face.
CELEBRANTS: No restriction
PHOTOGRAPHER: No restriction
F&B (including cakes): No restriction
ENTERTAINMENT: No restriction
DANCING: No restriction
TRANSPORT: Follow safe hygiene practices to protect yourself and passengers. Passengers to sit in the back of the vehicle first where possible
HAIR/MAKEUP: No restriction
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
VENUES: 250 people (indoor), 1000 people (outdoor). 1 person per 2 sqm.
From 1 May 2021, the free Check in TAS app will be the only system for providing and collecting contact tracing information in Tasmania. You must clearly display the Check In Tas QR code at all your premises or event entrances. You will receive this QR code after you have registered. More info here.
CELEBRANTS: Social distancing required
PHOTOGRAPHER: Social distancing required
F&B (including cakes): No restriction
ENTERTAINMENT: No restriction
DANCING: Permitted. Up to 100 people can dance and drink standing up at indoor venues. Up to 250 people can dance and drink at outdoor venues.
TRANSPORT: No restriction
HAIR/MAKEUP: No restriction
SOCIAL DISTANCING: Yes
REGISTER WITH COVID-SAFE? Yes
In most states, the wedding venue is responsible for the collection of attending guest information along with a COVID-Safe plan. Our COVID Wedding Restrictions Tracker above indicates which states and services need to register all clients they come in contact with.
Please confirm with the venue prior to the wedding to ensure you do not have to track guests and suppliers.
Venues in SA must elect and register a COVID-Safe marshal. It is not a requirement in any other state, however, we do recommend that all suppliers nominate a staff member to patrol adherence to restrictions for both staff members, couples, and guests. Source: https://www.covid-19.sa.gov.au/business-and-work/covid-marshals
Highly recommend making all tracking and tracing contact-less. Here are some options:
Small costs should be absorbed if possible — things like cleaning supplies are a great example of supplier costs to absorb. Any larger costs — like extra staffing or additional hire items — that you might like to pass onto the couples should be included in any new contract terms and conditions going forward.
It is everyone’s responsibility to understand the restrictions and rules of how to conduct a COVID-Safe wedding.
Generally, it will be the responsibility of the venue to control inappropriate behaviours on the wedding day. It is important that the venue and all suppliers are in contact with each other prior to the wedding day to ensure they are all following COVID-Safe procedures. You’re also responsible for your staff’s behaviours, so you’ll want to ensure they’re all up to date on the latest protocols.
The venue and/or wedding planner should communicate the COVID Safety Plan with the couple, and the couple should communicate this info to their guests prior to the day. A post in their wedding Facebook group, SMS or group email is a great way to communicate this info with guests.
Yes — all staff, regardless of position, need to complete COVID-19 Infection Control Training and must have the certifications available onsite at all times. To complete the online training visit health.gov.
There’s a lot you can do to keep the experience a positive one for couples and their wedding guests.
Check out our panel webinar on How to Run a COVID-Safe Wedding for ideas from top industry suppliers across different business categories and Australian states. Or ask the Wedding Supplier Network, our online wedding industry community, to make suggestions based on your specific business and state.
Are you a couple looking for more info about the latest wedding restrictions? Head to the start of our COVID Wedding Restrictions Tracker.
The National Covid-19 Commission Advisory Board has developed a planning tool to help businesses reopen and be COVIDSafe. Here’s the approved COVID-Safe template.
In most states, the wedding venue is responsible for the overarching COVID-Safe plan, however, all wedding suppliers should have and adhere to a COVID-Safe plan for their operations both internal and external. For private weddings, the wedding planner or couple is responsible developing and managing guests to adhere to a COVID-Safe plan.
Download the government-approved COVID-Safe plan here https://pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/files/my-business-covidsafe-plan-update-19-08-2020.pdf
With so much information out there about the latest COVID-Safety rules in every state being so nuanced, we’ve found this restriction checker tool from Health Direct to be incredibly helpful for accessing wedding restrictions quickly.
Are you stumped with how to deal with COVID-19 issues in your contract? We spoke with an expert lawyer to answer all the questions facing wedding suppliers. Here’s some insight into legal questions for wedding suppliers dealing with contract dilemmas like postponing weddings during coronavirus.
If you’re struggling to take enquiries and convert them to sales at the moment, wedding industry expert Alan Berg offers valuable advice on how to maintain wedding sales without selling into a crisis.
Social media has proven a fantastic way to keep in touch with audiences as things change quickly in response to COVID-19. Here are some tips from our social media squad on staying connected during times of uncertainty.
And lastly, for a bit of business inspiration, here are real stories of how different wedding businesses like venues, photographers and musicians are getting by in these strange times.
Disclaimer: We’re happy to be a reliable source of redistributing information within the Australian wedding industry. Please be advised that this content is by no means legal advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Our Easy Weddings COVID-Safe Wedding Guidance Tool is meant to be used as a supplemental information destination that promotes safe wedding practices that are in line with the Australian government’s COVID-19 safety advice. When possible, we have linked all appropriate government bodies as sources of more detailed information.
See something missing or something wrong? Let us know. We strive to keep our COVID information updated but restrictions are changing frequently.
