Marriage Equality in Noosa

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

1975: Queensland decriminalised homosexuality, becoming one of the progressive states
2002: Queensland introduced civil union registration for same-sex couples
2004: Marriage Act amended to explicitly define marriage as between a man and a woman
2009: Queensland 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’
Queensland recorded a 60.7% ‘Yes’ vote
Noosa and the Sunshine Coast achieved strong ‘Yes’ votes regionally
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
Noosa and the Sunshine Coast 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 Queensland and Australia

Marriage Services

At the Noosa 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
Queensland 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 Sunshine Coast 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

Queensland Support Services

Legal Support

Queensland Human Rights Commission
Legal Aid Queensland
Queensland Pride Legal Service
Community legal centres

Community Support

Queensland Pride Centre
Sunshine Coast Community Health
Rainbow Families Queensland
QLife Queensland
Local LGBTQIA+ community groups

Noosa’s Inclusive Wedding Industry

Noosa and the Sunshine Coast proudly offer:

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

Looking Forward

The Noosa 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

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