Looking for a paperwork-only wedding in NSW? You’re not alone. Many couples today are skipping the big celebration and choosing a simple, affordable way to make their marriage official — no guests, no stress, just the legal paperwork and your vows. A paperwork-only marriage lets you say “I do” in a short, meaningful moment while keeping costs low and the process easy.
Across New South Wales, you’ll find a range of registry offices and authorised celebrants who specialise in paperwork-only weddings, helping you complete the legal requirements of marriage quickly and conveniently. Whether you’re based in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong or a regional town, there are options to suit every couple, from quick signings in an office or studio to intimate legal ceremonies in your own home or a nearby park.
In this guide, we’ll show you the best places for paperwork-only marriages in NSW, including trusted celebrants and registry offices that handle everything you need for a legal marriage without the extra costs. You’ll also find useful info about how the process works, what documents to bring, and how to register your marriage in New South Wales.
What is a paperwork only marriage?
A paperwork-only marriage (also known as a legals-only wedding or registry-style ceremony) is a simple, legal way to get married without a full wedding ceremony or reception. It includes only the essential legal components to get married under Australian marriage law and involves speaking the minimum vows, signing of the officiate certificates, and having two witnesses present.
A paperwork only wedding is perfect for couples who:
- Want a quick, no-fuss marriage before or after a destination wedding
- Are on a budget and don’t need a traditional celebration
- Prefer to formalise their marriage privately, without guests or decorations
A paperwork-only wedding can take place anywhere and are usually officiated at a registry office, a celebrant’s office, at a local park or in your own home. It’s typically the fastest and most affordable way to get legally married in NSW, with most ceremonies taking less than 10 minutes and costing only a few hundred dollars.
Types of paperwork only marriages in NSW
In NSW you have two options for a legals-only wedding (aka paperwork-only marriage). You can either book an appointment to get married at the Registry Office, or hire a marriage celebrant to organise the legalities for you.
Whether to be married at the Registry Office or by a marriage celebrant is typically decided by price, convenience and availability. Booking a celebrant in your area is usually cheaper, easier & more convenient than getting married at a registry office, as celebrants typically come to you and assist with the submission of legal documentation, whereas the registry will simply marry you and you need to complete & submit your own paperwork.
Here's a run down on both options to help you decide whether an authorised celebrant or registry office is right for you.
Celebrant |
Registry |
|
| Price | $350 - 650 | $469 - 888 |
| Online Option | Y | N |
| Venue Choice | Y | Limited |
| Paperwork Lodgement | Y | N |
| Personal Vows | Y | N |
| Queue | N | Maybe |
| Stress Free | Y | Y |
Explore Paperwork-Only Marriages in NSW
Option 1 - Marriage Celebrant ($350+)
Option 2 - Registry Office ($480+)
Paperwork Weddings By Marriage Celebrants
Booking a paperwork only marriage with a wedding celebrant is the quickest, easiest and most affordable way to get married in NSW. It's also the most convenient with celebrants providing full administrative support to complete your official paperwork and officially register your wedding under Australian law. If you think you'll need help submitting your Notice Of Intended Marriage NOIM form, choose a celebrant from our recommended list below.
Celebrants in NSW charge between $350 - $650 for a paperwork only marriage which is cheaper than Commonwealth Registry Offices where ceremonies range from $480 - $888.
Here are 6 benefits of choosing an authorised marriage celebrant for a paperwork only wedding, rather than booking a registry office:
- You don't need to attend an interview one month before your wedding. This is particularly handy for interstate and overseas couples who can simply fly into NSW and get married without waiting around for a month first.
- Your NOIM is lodged for you and you receive administrative support in completing the form.
- You can choose your own celebrant and be married by someone who you connect with.
- Most celebrants are cheaper
- You can pick your own wedding location
- You can opt for personalised vows and/or include your love story
Booking a paperwork only marriage with a celebrant is much like an elopement. You have the freedom & convenience of getting married in a location of your choice, at the time of your choice, with a celebrant you like, and you have the flexibility to personalise the moment, making it special & memorable.
Below, we've curated a list of celebrants in New South Wales who specialise in paperwork only weddings. We recommend these celebrants for couples wanting a legals only marriage in NSW as they're lovely people who make it easy to get married and offer affordable packages that include unlimited administrative support.
Top 10 Paperwork Only Weddings in NSW (By Celebrants)
1. Michael Janz
- Location: Randwick, NSW
- HOME OFFICE
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $500
- Marriage certificate included
Michael Janz is one of Sydney’s most trusted celebrants for paperwork-only weddings, offering couples a simple and affordable way to make their marriage legal without the formality of a traditional ceremony. Based in Randwick, Michael regularly officiates quick legals-only weddings at his home office, or at scenic CBD locations such as Mrs Macquarie’s Chair on Sydney Harbour.
Known for his warm & professional approach, Michael guides couples through the legal paperwork with ease, from completing the Notice of Intended Marriage to lodging documents with Births, Deaths & Marriages NSW. He can even provide witnesses for a small additional fee, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.
Whether you’re formalising your relationship before moving overseas, or simply preferring an intimate signing, Michael Janz makes it effortless to say “I do” in Sydney.
2. Mick Goldie
- Location: Coogee, NSW
- Service Area: Sydney CBD, Eastern Suburbs
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $500
For couples planning a paperwork-only marriage in Sydney, Mick Goldie offers one of the most relaxed, affordable and enjoyable ways to make it official. An ex-journalist and tour guide turned celebrant, Mick brings humour, warmth and professionalism to every ceremony. For just $500, he’ll legally marry you anywhere on Sydney Harbour or in the Eastern Suburbs, creating simple, joyful moments that feel genuinely personal rather than procedural.
Mick’s simple ceremonies include everything you need to get legally married including the minimum vows and official paperwork, plus the option to add personal touches like readings, a ring exchange and your own written promises. Whether it’s an intimate signing with two witnesses or a lively gathering of friends, Mick keeps things organised, stress-free and full of good energy.
3. Paperwork Weddings by Vicki Frittman
- Location: Pagewood, NSW
- Service Area: Sydney
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $600
Vicki Frittmann is a Commonwealth authorised wedding celebrant who officiates paperwork marriages in Sydney's CBD, Eastern Suburbs and Inner West. She was married herself at McKell Park on Sydney Harbour and recommends this location if you're looking for a quiet spot to simply sign wedding documentation.
Paperwork only weddings are $600 and get you officially hitched in a 5-8 minute legals only ceremony that involves saying the required wording, signing documentation and the option of exchanging rings and personalised vows. This package includes a meeting to complete and lodge your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM), a short legal ceremony at your chosen location within 25km of Pagewood, and lodgement of all paperwork with Births, Deaths and Marriages.
With her friendly, professional approach and attention to detail, Vicki Frittmann makes the process of getting legally married in Sydney seamless, stress-free, and perfectly tailored to your needs.
4. Megumi Carver Celebrant
- Location: Rosebery, NSW 2018
- HOME OFFICE
- Monday - Thursday: $490
- Friday - Sunday: $590
Professional marriage celebrant Megumi Carver brings her signature mix of style, humour and heart to the simplest of weddings, turning a quick legal signing into a fun, laughter-filled wedding experience. Known for her upbeat personality and infectious sense of humour, Megumi makes even the most low-key legals-only ceremony feel personal and full of joy.
Her legals-only ceremonies start from $490 and include everything needed to make your marriage official, from lodging the NOIM and handling all paperwork to Japanese/English translation. You can hold your ceremony at Megumi’s Rosebery studio or a local café, and simply need to hold hands, say the required legal words, sign the papers, and you're married.
5. Hitched by Kellie Warren
- Location: Londonderry, NSW (Hawkesbury)
- HOME OFFICE
- Availability: Monday - Thursday
- Cost: $600
Kellie Warren offers paperwork only weddings at her residence in Londonderry near Richmond, providing couples with a simple, affordable and stress-free way to make their marriage official. As a registered marriage celebrant, Kellie specialises in quick, no-fuss legal ceremonies which are perfect for couples who want to get married without the formality & cost of a traditional wedding or who plan to celebrate overseas later.
Kellie's Basic Elopement Package is ideal for those seeking a straightforward legal marriage, and involves two meetings: an initial virtual consultation to complete your Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and confirm your date, followed by the wedding day appointment at her Londonderry residence.
On the day of your marriage, you’ll exchange the required legal words, sign the certificates, and walk away officially married. Witnesses can be arranged for a small additional fee. Weekday ceremonies have the easiest availability, with some weekend options during off-peak periods.
6. Love & Life With Louise
- Location: Hunter Valley, NSW
- Service Area: Hunter Valley, Newcastle, Port Macquarie
- Availability: 7 Days
Louise Manning is an award-winning wedding planner, MC, and authorised celebrant based in Maitland, who offers paperwork-only weddings across the Hunter Valley and Newcastle regions of NSW. Louise is an ideal celebrant choice for couples who have asked a friend to officiate their wedding and need a qualified celebrant to certify the documentation.
With her friendly, efficient approach, Louise handles all the legal requirements, from preparing and lodging documents to registering your marriage. Couples can also bundle coordination and celebrant services to save time and money, making Louise a smart choice for a smooth, stress-free paperwork-only wedding in the Hunter region.
7. Married By Sharon
- Location: Dapto, NSW 2530
- Service Areas: Wollongong, Illawarra, South Coast
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $750
If you’re looking for a fun, down-to-earth celebrant to take care of your paperwork-only wedding in NSW, Sharon is the perfect choice. Based in Wollongong, she offers relaxed legals-only ceremonies from $750 anywhere across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven & Southern Highland regions.
Sharon's short and sweet ceremonies include all the required legal wording & official document signing, plus the option to add personal vows or a ring exchange if you wish. Known for her bubbly and engaging personality, she creates a lighthearted yet meaningful experience where you can celebrate your commitment, share a few laughs and walk away officially married.
8. Simple Ceremonies
- Location: Blues Point Reserve, Sydney Harbour
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $350+
Simple Ceremonies are Sydney's leading specialists in quick & easy paperwork weddings offering affordable packages from $350 at Blues Point Reserve on Sydney Harbour. Officiated by experienced celebrant Michael Teulon, these legals-only ceremonies are perfect for couples who just want to get the paperwork done, whether it’s a last-minute wedding, an intimate signing for two, or a small celebration with up to 60 guests.
Set in one of Sydney’s most iconic spots, Blues Point Reserve offers unbeatable views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, making it one of the city's most picturesque places to say “I do.” Conveniently located near public transport, parking, and ferries, Simple Ceremonies gives couples the ultimate Sydney wedding experience without the stress or expense of a traditional celebration.
9. Janice Bradley
- Location: Penrith, NSW
- Service Area: Western Sydney
- Availability: 7 Days
- Cost: $500
Janice Bradley is the perfect civil marriage celebrant for couples seeking just-the-paperwork for a quick, fuss-free wedding in Western Sydney. Based in Penrith, Janice offers paperwork-only weddings locally at your home, or beautiful locations nearby such as Weir Reserve, Tench Reserve on the Nepean River, or even aboard the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler.
Janice is known for being friendly, organised, and responsive, making the process of getting legally married simple and stress-free. With her guidance, creativity, and professionalism, Janice ensures your marriage ceremony — no matter how small — is meaningful, memorable, and filled with warmth.
Llynda Nairn Weddings
- Location: Hunter Valley, NSW
- Service Areas: Lake Macquarie - Port Stephens
- Administrative Weddings: $500
Llynda Nairn is a professional marriage celebrant based in Millfield, offering paperwork-only weddings in the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens area from just $500. Known for her warm personality and sharp sense of humour, Llynda delivers super simple wedding ceremonies that are lighthearted, meaningful, and completely stress-free.
Llynda handles all the legal paperwork, ensuring your legals-only marriage is quick, easy, and beautifully personal, whether it’s an intimate signing or a small celebration surrounded by loved ones.
Registry Office Wedding
Getting married at the Registry Office is quick, cheap and reasonably easy for anyone with a good command of the English language. A registry office wedding does not include support to complete legal paperwork. You'll need to submit your own Notice Of Intended Marriage form and apply for your own marriage certificate.
There are 4 marriage registries in NSW including two privately operated registry offices in Sydney, and two goverment-operated offices in Pyrmont and at the Old Wollongong Courthouse. We recommend The Vicarage At Lords if you're wanting a more personal experience with onsite wedding photos as there are beautiful gardens within the grounds. The Milsons Point Studio has views of Sydney Harbour.
1. Milsons Point Studio
Private • Lodge your own NOIM • Add $68 for marriage certificate
- Wednesday - Sunday 9am - 4.30pm: $350
- Saturday 8am - 11.30am: $350
- Sunday 10am - 12.30pm: $350
2. The Vicarage At Lords
Private • Includes NOIM • Includes marriage certificate
- Monday - Thursday 7am - 10pm: $1,880
3. Pyrmont Registry
Government • Lodge your own NOIM • Includes marriage certificate
- Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm: $480+
- Saturday 9am - 4pm: $595+
- Select Saturdays 4.30pm - 6pm: $800+
4. Old Wollongong Courthouse
Government • Lodge your own NOIM • Includes marriage certificate
- Wednesdays Only: $660
To get married at the Registry Office you'll need to submit all your own paperwork and attend a marriage interview one month before the date of your intended marriage. At the interview you'll be asked to pay, your documents will be reviewed and you can discuss options and ask questions about your ceremony. If you are not fluent in English you are required to organise your own interpreter who must accompany you to the interview.
To organise your Registry Office wedding, complete the following documents and then book a marriage interview at your preferred location:
Paperwork Only Marriages - FAQ
Eligibility for a paperwork only marriage in NSW
To get legally married in NSW you & your partner must be 18 years of age or older on the big day. There's a bunch of other rules like you can't already be married and there are restrictions on marrying blood relatives which are incidentally not as strict as you might expect. If you're worried about your eligibility, grab yourself a marriage celebrant from the above list and they'll sort you out.
Notice of Intended Marriage
If you are choosing a celebrant to marry you, they will email you the right NOIM for you to fill in, and will lodge it for you online. Your NOIM must be submitted more than 1 month before your wedding date and is valid for 18 months from the submission date.
What you'll need for a paperwork only marriage in NSW
To get married in NSW you'll need either of:
- original birth certificates + photo ID (drivers licence)
- passports
If applicable to you, you may also need:
- change of name certificate
- divorce papers
- death certificate of previous spouse
The state of NSW makes it reasonably easy to get married without all the fuss of a large wedding ceremony and reception. Simply find a registry office location convenient to you, or pick one of our paperwork only celebrants above and you're 30 days away from being a legally married couple. Love rules.
Getting married in Sydney and looking for the simplest legal option? Browse our Legals Only Weddings Sydney list for quick, affordable ceremonies near you.