Australia offers a unique mix of relaxed charm and high-end celebration. Whether you picture a barefoot ceremony on a private beach, a lavish vineyard reception, or an intimate gathering in a heritage estate, venues here combine natural beauty with impeccable service. Couples often find Australia an appealing alternative to overseas weddings because it feels like a destination celebration without the long-haul complexity.
Where to go. Australia spans vast coastlines, wine regions, rainforests, and outback landscapes, offering a destination for every kind of celebration. Whether you’re dreaming of a private island escape, a vineyard soiree, or a culturally rich outback experience, there’s a location to match your style.
- Hayman Island. A private island in the Whitsundays where barefoot luxury meets five-star service. Perfect for couples dreaming of a beachfront ceremony with crystal-clear waters and secluded luxury.
- Port Douglas. Where the Great Barrier Reef meets ancient rainforest. This tropical haven is ideal for elegant outdoor receptions, waterfront vows, and guest adventures before and after the wedding.
- Hunter Valley. New South Wales’ premier wine region, filled with vineyard estates, boutique resorts, and award-winning wineries. A favourite for romantic countryside weddings just a short drive from Sydney.
- Yarra Valley. Known for its rolling hills and cool-climate wines, this region near Melbourne offers stunning winery venues, intimate boutique stays, and exceptional local food and wine.
- Margaret River. A Western Australian gem famous for its surf, coastline, and world-class wineries. It’s perfect for relaxed yet refined celebrations.
When to go. Australia’s seasons vary across regions, meaning there’s almost always an ideal time to marry somewhere in the country. The Whitsundays and Port Douglas are at their best from May to October with warm, dry days perfect for outdoor celebrations.
Wine regions like the Hunter and Yarra Valleys shine in autumn (March–May) with golden vines and in spring (September–November) when everything is in bloom. To secure better venue availability and avoid peak holiday crowds, consider shoulder months like late April or early September.
For international couples, marrying in Australia is straightforward and legally recognised worldwide. Both partners must be at least 18 years old, not already married, and able to provide valid passports or birth certificates. Couples need to lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) with an authorised celebrant at least one month and up to 18 months before the wedding date. The NOIM can be lodged while overseas, but both parties must meet their celebrant in person before the ceremony.
On the day, two witnesses over 18 must be present, and your celebrant will guide you through the legal vows required under Australian law. Same‑sex marriages are fully legal, and you can choose a civil, religious, or symbolic ceremony to suit your preferences. Once your marriage is registered, you can request an official marriage certificate to use in your home country for legal or immigration purposes.
Planning a destination wedding in Australia with Easy Weddings means working with a team who knows the venues, suppliers, and local logistics inside out. Some couples secure their venue 12–18 months ahead, while others plan in under a year. Here’s how the journey often unfolds:
10–18 months out
Secure your venue, book accommodation, and lock in key suppliers like your celebrant, photographer, entertainment, and coordinator. It’s also a good time to start looking for your wedding attire.
12 months out
Send out save‑the‑dates with travel details and accommodation options. If you’re ordering a custom outfit, now’s the moment to place your order.
8–10 months out
Book flights and honeymoon stays. We’ll connect you with florists, stylists, and beauty professionals to begin shaping your wedding look and feel.
5–8 months out
Finalise styling, menus, music, and cake choices. We’ll also help confirm wedding party outfits and any personal details you’d like to include.
2–3 months out
Send your formal wedding invitations, arrange guest favours or welcome bags, and start tracking RSVPs.
2–4 weeks out
We’ll send you a detailed wedding run sheet including timings, supplier details, and contact info. Together, we’ll walk through everything with your venue’s event team so you know exactly how the day will unfold.
Australia has its own contrasts: think tropical beaches, rolling vineyards, and reef-side rainforests. Even if your wedding events are in different cities, domestic flights and scenic drives make multi-location celebrations easy to plan.
Sail the Whitsundays
Charter a yacht for a sunset cruise around Hayman Island—champagne, canapés, and turquoise waters set the tone for what’s to come.
Toast Among the Vines
Spend an afternoon wine tasting in the Hunter or Yarra Valley, pairing bold vintages with long lunches overlooking golden hills.
Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef
Take your guests on a reef adventure from Port Douglas—colourful coral, tropical fish, and that once‑in‑a‑lifetime feeling.
Wander Rainforest Trails
Explore the Daintree with a guided walk or canopy tour, soaking in the lush beauty and ancient energy of this UNESCO‑listed wonder.
Feast by the Sea
End the festivities with a barefoot beach barbecue—local seafood, chilled wine, and the sound of waves as your farewell soundtrack.
Chase Waterfalls
Add a day trip to one of Queensland’s or New South Wales’ hidden waterfalls, making it perfect for a refreshing swim and stunning photos.
Can two foreigners get married in Australia?
Yes. Couples from overseas can legally marry in Australia provided they meet the requirements. You’ll need to submit a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form at least one month before the wedding. Most couples handle this paperwork from abroad, often with the help of a celebrant or planner.
Do we need a visa to get married in Australia?
Not specifically. A standard tourist visa is sufficient if you’re coming just for the ceremony and not planning to live in Australia after. Always check the latest visa rules before booking.
What’s the best time of year to get married in Australia?
That depends on your location. Tropical destinations like Port Douglas and Hayman Island are best from May to October. Wine regions like the Hunter Valley shine in autumn (March–May) or spring (September–November). Australia’s varied climates make it possible to find your perfect season somewhere, year-round.
Can we have a religious or same-sex wedding ceremony in Australia?
Yes. Civil and same‑sex marriages have been fully legal in Australia since 2017. Couples can choose a civil or religious ceremony, provided it is conducted by an authorised celebrant. Religious celebrants may choose whether to perform same‑sex weddings, but there are many inclusive celebrants and congregations who will happily officiate. Civil ceremonies are fully inclusive for all couples.