Marriage Equality in Melbourne

Current Legal Status

Since December 9, 2017, marriage in Australia has been defined as “the union of two people to the exclusion of all others, voluntarily entered into for life.” This definition applies regardless of gender or sexuality.

The Path to Marriage Equality

Historical Context

1980: Victoria decriminalised homosexuality, one of the first states to do so
2001: Victoria introduced relationship registration for same-sex couples
2004: Marriage Act amended to explicitly define marriage as between a man and a woman
2008: Victoria introduced state-based relationship recognition
2009-2017: Multiple attempts to change marriage laws at federal level
2017: Successful postal survey and legislative change

The Postal Survey

Conducted between September and November 2017
61.6% of Australians voted ‘Yes’
Victoria recorded a 64.9% ‘Yes’ vote
Melbourne achieved some of the highest ‘Yes’ votes nationally
Over 80% of eligible Australians participated

Legislative Change

Marriage Amendment (Definition and Religious Freedoms) Act 2017
Passed parliament on December 7, 2017
Became law on December 9, 2017
First legal same-sex marriages took place from January 9, 2018
Melbourne celebrated with many of Australia’s first same-sex weddings

What This Means Today

Legal Recognition

All marriages are equal under Australian law
Same legal rights and protections for all married couples
Full recognition of overseas same-sex marriages
Equal access to marriage-related benefits and obligations
Complete recognition throughout Victoria and Australia

Marriage Services

At the Melbourne Marriage Office:

We welcome and celebrate all couples equally
Same straightforward process for everyone
Same legal requirements apply
Same documentation needed
Same celebrant services available
Inclusive, supportive environment

Documentation

Marriage certificates are identical for all couples
No gender-specific language on certificates
Standard forms use inclusive terminology
Equal recognition by all government departments
Victorian BDM uses inclusive documentation

Religious Protections

Religious organisations can choose whether to perform marriages
Civil celebrants must follow inclusive laws
Our services are non-religious and welcome all couples
Many Melbourne religious organisations offer inclusive ceremonies

Overseas Recognition

Australian same-sex marriages are recognised in many countries
Recognition varies internationally
Check specific country requirements if travelling
We can provide guidance on documentation needed
Support available for international recognition needs

Victorian Support Services

Legal Support

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission
Victoria Legal Aid
Victorian Pride Legal Service
Community legal centres

Community Support

Victorian Pride Centre
Thorne Harbour Health
Rainbow Families Victoria
Switchboard Victoria
Local LGBTQIA+ community groups

Melbourne’s Inclusive Wedding Industry

Melbourne proudly offers:

LGBTQIA+ friendly venues
Inclusive wedding suppliers
Supportive wedding professionals
Experienced equality-minded celebrants
Wide range of ceremony options

Looking Forward

The Melbourne Marriage Office celebrates equality in marriage by:

Providing professional, inclusive services to all couples
Using inclusive language throughout
Ensuring equal treatment in all aspects
Supporting all couples’ right to marry
Maintaining strong community connections
Offering guidance and support when needed

Additional Resources

Local Support

Victorian LGBTQIA+ organisations
Marriage equality support groups
Legal advocacy services
Community health services
Mental health support services

Documentation Support

Help with international recognition
Assistance with documentation needs
Support for name changes
Guidance on legal requirements
Information about rights and protections

The Melbourne Marriage Office is proud to be part of Melbourne’s diverse and inclusive community, supporting marriage equality for all couples.