Getting Married At The Registry Office in Perth
A simple, no-fuss way to make it official.
Not every couple wants the big wedding day fanfare. Whether you’re planning a low-key celebration, looking to save on costs, or just want to take care of the legal side quickly and simply, a registry office wedding could be the perfect fit.
Getting married through the registry office is one of the most straightforward ways to tie the knot in Western Australia. It’s quick, affordable, and still gets you legally married — minus the guest list stress, elaborate planning, or venue hunting.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering getting married at the registry office in Perth.
What Is a Registry Office Wedding?
A registry office wedding (also called a courthouse or court wedding) is a legal marriage ceremony conducted by a government-appointed officiant, usually in an office run by Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM).
It’s different from a celebrant-led wedding in a few key ways:
It’s held at a fixed location (typically the BDM office)
It follows a standard legal script — no personal vows, stories, or readings
It’s designed to be quick and simple, often under 5 minutes
It’s generally the most affordable legal marriage option
Perfect for couples who just want to make it official without all the bells and whistles.
How to Book a Registry Office Wedding in Perth
In WA, registry weddings are booked through the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM), located in the Perth CBD.
Here’s how the process works:
Submit a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
You must lodge this form at least one month before your wedding date. You can do it in person or by mail.Choose your ceremony date and time
Registry weddings are generally held on weekdays only (no weekends or public holidays), and availability can vary — so get in early if you’re set on a particular date.Pay the required fee
A non-refundable fee is required at the time of booking to secure your spot.
You can find booking info and forms on the official WA government website or visit the Perth registry office directly.
What Happens on the Day?
Registry weddings are intentionally short and sweet. Here’s what to expect:
You and your partner will arrive at the registry office with your two witnesses
The government-appointed officiant will perform the legal ceremony
You’ll sign two marriage certificates
You’ll be officially pronounced married — time to celebrate!
There’s no option to customise the wording, music, or vows — the script is fixed to meet legal requirements. You’ll also need to be on time and may only have a short window for your ceremony.
Some registry offices allow a few guests or a quick photo afterwards, but space and timing are limited.
Who Can Be Your Witnesses?
Just like any legal marriage in Australia, you’ll need two witnesses who are:
Over 18 years old
Present at the ceremony
Able to understand what’s happening (they don’t need to be Australian citizens)
They can be family, friends, or even strangers — although most couples opt for someone close to them. Make sure they bring photo ID just in case.
How Much Does It Cost?
One of the biggest drawcards of a registry office wedding is the price.
As of 2025, registry weddings in WA cost around:
$350–$500, depending on the day, time, and inclusions
There may be extra fees for:
Priority processing of your paperwork or certificate
Venue hire if you opt for a BDM-approved alternate venue
Translations or interpreters, if required
Always check the latest pricing on the official BDM WA website before booking.
What to Do After the Wedding?
After your registry office wedding, your marriage will be officially registered with BDM WA — but that doesn’t mean you automatically receive your official marriage certificate.
To get your legal certificate, you’ll need to:
Wait for your marriage to be registered (usually a few days after the wedding)
Apply for the certificate online via the BDM WA website
Pay the standard fee (currently $53 for a standard certificate)
This certificate is essential for changing your name, applying for visas, or proving your marriage for any legal reason.
Final Thoughts
A registry office wedding is a great option for couples wanting a fast, legal, and cost-effective way to say "I do." It strips things back to the essentials — just the two of you, the paperwork, and the promise.
If you’re looking for a simple alternative but want something more personalised, a legals-only wedding with a celebrant could be your happy medium. You still keep things easy, but with a touch of heart and flexibility in location, wording, and timing.
Looking for a simple yet meaningful wedding?
I offer legals-only ceremonies across Perth with all the legal bits covered and just the right amount of personality.
Let’s chat about your options
