Can you be married without witnesses in the same room. As I have anxiety issues and I don't do very well around other people.
Question Asked: 12/02/2023
Wedding Date: 9/08/2018
Answered by: 13 Experts
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Unfortunately the law states that there must be five people present at a wedding. However, there are ways to make such a situation less stressful if you wish to invite two close friends who understand your anxiety and are able to sit with you in a way which allows you to feel comfortable. The wedding could take place in your loungeroom or around a dining table almost like a casual chat. Share some food and, when the time is right, the legal wording could be read out loud. Then all that needs to be done is sign the paperwork. Find a celebrant who has the time to sit down and help you work through the anxiety of the situation. They should be able to assist you with making the ceremony as calm and relaxing as possible.
I often suggest to my couples to have their parents as witnesses, or the people they feel closest to. Some couples choose to only have the photographer and musician to be their witnesses, for the intimate elopements that I perform on the beach, here on beautiful Magnetic Island. Make a holiday out of your wedding and then you will feel a lot more relaxed about the day too. Ask me about eloping to Magnetic Island for your tropical island wedding.
It would be nice to be able to help you with your anxiety issues, and I guess if you ask someone close to you who understands you, it might help, but the Marriage Act does state that two people over the age of 18 MUST witness the ceremony and sign a legal document as proof.
Unfortunate that isn't possible in all states of Australia. Witnesses to a marriage is a legal requirement
Not in Australia.
You only need two people, plus your Celebrant, though and can pick family or the people you are most comfortable with.
In Australia, absolutely not. There must be two witnesses over the legal age of 18. Carry On!
(4) · Ballarat, Daylesford, Ballan, Bacchus Marsh, Geelong & Bellarine Peninsula
Posted: 14/02/2023
No, there isn't. Not in Australia
This is because two witnesses must be over 18 years of age, and:
1. Actually be present in person to witness the ceremony; and
2. Be physically present to Sign as Witnesses on the Official paperwork. This is required under Australian Federal Law.
One witness each for Bride & Groom is mandatory
Having two witnesses over the age of 18 years, who can understand the ceremony (language etc.) is a legal requirement.
However, when couples are eloping or don't have two witnesses (they might be in another state etc.) then the Celebrant and couple can be a little creative.
I have asked my daughter and her husband to attend a few ceremonies as witnesses. Or the couple can ask their photographer, or another supplier for example. The witnesses will need to sign the legal paperwork after the ceremony and are required to be present during the ceremony.
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Unfortunately you do have to have two witlessness along, whom must be over the age 18 years as this is a legal requirement.
Keep this in mind, you can bring your family or whomever you are closest with to witness you marry your love!