What Is the Role of the Witnesses When Getting Married?
A Simple Guide for Couples**
When planning a wedding, most couples know they need a celebrant, a venue, and of course each other—but many forget about one important requirement:
your witnesses.
So what exactly do witnesses do, why are they needed, and who can be one?
Let’s break it down.
Why Do We Need Witnesses?
In Australia, witnesses play an essential legal role in your wedding ceremony.
Their job is simple but important: they confirm that the marriage took place and that they saw you willingly enter into it.
Witnesses exist to:
Ensure the ceremony was conducted properly
Verify that both parties consented
Provide independent confirmation of the marriage
Their signatures become part of your official legal record.
How Many Witnesses Do We Need?
You need two witnesses—no more, no less.
These two witnesses must be present for:
The legal wording
Your exchange of vows
The signing of the marriage certificates
They sign the same documents you and your celebrant sign.
Who Can Be a Witness?
To be a legal witness in Australia, a person must:
✔️ Be at least 18 years old
✔️ Understand the ceremony is a marriage
✔️ Be able to clearly witness the vows and the signing
They do not need to be Australian. Guests from overseas can sign as long as they meet the age requirement and understand the moment.
Your witnesses can be:
Family members
Friends
Siblings
Members of your bridal party
Anyone special to you
Many couples choose people who have played an important role in their relationship.
Do Witnesses Need ID?
Usually, no.
Your celebrant will only request ID if there’s uncertainty around the witness’s age or identity.
There’s no formal paperwork for witnesses besides signing the marriage certificates.
Do Witnesses Have Legal Responsibilities After the Wedding?
No.
Once they’ve signed the certificates, their part is done. They don’t have ongoing obligations—they’re simply part of the legal record confirming your marriage took place.
Can We Choose Witnesses Last Minute?
Yes!
If you haven’t decided ahead of time, you can select them on the day—many couples do.
Just make sure they’re present for the whole ceremony.
What If We’re Having an Elopement?
For elopements or very small weddings where you may not know anyone locally, you can ask:
Your photographer
Your videographer
Venue staff
Even passers-by (if appropriate)
Most celebrants—including me—are happy to help organise suitable witnesses if needed.
Is the Witness Role Symbolic or Meaningful?
For some couples, witnesses are chosen simply for convenience.
For others, it’s a deeply meaningful decision—a way of honouring someone special in their lives.
It’s a lovely moment to include:
A best friend
A sibling
A parent
A mentor
Someone who has walked the journey with you
Many couples treat it as a subtle but heartfelt way of saying “you matter.”
Final Thoughts
Witnesses are a small but essential part of your ceremony.
Their signatures help transform your wedding day from a celebration into a legally recognised marriage.
Whether chosen for convenience or for sentiment, witnesses help carry the significance of your moment into your lifelong story.
As your celebrant, I’ll guide your witnesses through the process so they feel comfortable, calm, and proud to be involved.
