Overview

This bill amends the Marriage Act 1949 to allow the Registrar General to authorize certain registered charities to conduct marriages. These charities must be focused on religious or non-religious beliefs, not own a registered place of worship, and have a good reputation.

Description

The bill introduces a new section (47A) to the Marriage Act 1949. This section empowers the Registrar General to approve organizations to solemnize marriages according to their own customs. To qualify, an organization must be:

• A registered charity promoting or practicing a religion or belief (including non-religious beliefs).
• Not possess or use a registered place of worship.
• Be deemed to be of good repute by the Registrar General.

The Registrar General will designate a principal officer within the approved organization who will appoint registering officers. The Registrar General can set conditions regarding marriage conduct and the safekeeping of marriage registers. Marriages must be conducted with open doors, witnessed, and with the presence of either a registrar or an appointed registering officer. A certificate proving each person's membership in the approved organization must be provided before the marriage notice is given. The bill also includes consequential amendments to other sections of the Marriage Act 1949 to integrate the new provisions.

Government Spending

The bill is unlikely to significantly impact government spending. The main cost would likely be administrative, relating to the Registrar General's oversight of the approved organizations and their registering officers. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Registered Charities: Charities meeting the criteria in the bill may be able to solemnize marriages, potentially increasing their influence and outreach.
• Couples: Couples may have more options for where and how they get married.
• Registrar General and Staff: Increased administrative workload for managing applications, oversight, and compliance related to approved organizations.
• Superintendent Registrars: Increased responsibility regarding marriages under the auspices of approved organizations.

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