Marriage Paperwork Explained: Notice of Intended Marriage in Australia aka the NOIM

karolina hews
Sep 24, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Oct 16, 2025

Feeling a bit confused about marriage paperwork in Australia? Here’s everything you need to know about the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) form, what it is, when to lodge it, and the documents you’ll need.

What Is a Notice of Intended Marriage

The Notice of Intended Marriage, or NOIM, is the first legal step towards getting married in Australia. It’s the paperwork that gets the ball rolling to make your wedding legally recognised.

As your celebrant I will always help you prepare and lodge the form, making sure everything is completed correctly so you can focus on the fun parts of planning your day. No need for you to chase documents or stress over the paperwork.

When Do You Need to Lodge the NOIM?

By law, your NOIM must be lodged at least one full month before your wedding day.

The NOIM then remains valid for 18 months, so if you need to move your date or make adjustments, you won’t have to start all over again. This flexibility is especially helpful if your wedding plans change or you decide to reschedule.

I prefer to lodge it with my couples 3-6 months before your big day!

*In special circumstances, you may be able to apply for a shortening of time. Chat with your celebrant and they’ll let you know what documents you’ll need

Where and How Do You Lodge the NOIM?

With me as your celebrant, I’ll guide you through the form, witness your signatures, and keep the paperwork safe until your wedding day. It’s simple, stress-free, and all part of the service I provide.

You’ve got two easy options:

In person: We catch up over a coffee, chat, and sign all the paperwork together.
Online: If you’re further away or short on time, we can handle everything over a Zoom meeting.

Who Can Witness a Notice of Intended Marriage?

When you complete your NOIM, you must sign it in front of an authorised witness.

In Australia, this can be:

Your marriage celebrant! It's the absolute easiest way as it's done while we sign and lodge the NOIM. In person or online.
A Justice of the Peace, A police officer, A lawyer

If you’re signing the form outside Australia, you can use an Australian diplomatic or consular officer, or a notary public. It’s super important to get this step right, as an incorrect witness can make the form invalid.

What Documents Do You Need for the NOIM?

To complete your NOIM, you’ll need to provide documents that prove your identity and your eligibility to marry. This includes:

Proof of birth. A birth certificate or passport. If you have a passport, you don't need any other id. Even an expired passport is fine!
Photo ID such as a driver’s licence. (Only if you don't have a passport.)
Evidence of the end of a previous marriage. A divorce certificate or death certificate. (if relevant)

Just make sure your documents are original or certified copies, as photocopies won’t be accepted.