It will soon be easier for same sex Australian couples to take part in overseas marriage ceremonies.

On 27 January, the Federal Government announced that same-sex Australian couples who wish to get married overseas will be able to apply for a certificate of no impediment from 1 February, 2012.

Some overseas countries require heterosexual or same-sex couples who wish to marry there to produce a certificate of no impediment. The certificate confirms that there is no legal reason why the couple can't get married.

Previously, certificates of no impediment were only issued to heterosexual couples.

Jodylee Bartal, a senior associate in Lander & Rogers' Family & Relationship Law group said, "This is an exciting development for same-sex couples in that they can now choose to be married overseas, where that country's law allows for same-sex marriage. However, couples should be aware that same-sex marriages are still not legally recognised in Australia."

Applications for the certificate can be made from 1 February, 2012.

Useful links

• Attorney-General's Office - Media Release
• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - Smart Traveller website

Further information

	Craig Henderson | Partner +61 3 9269 9105 chenderson@landers.com.au			Jodylee Bartal | Senior Associate +61 3 9269 9463 jbartal@landers.com.au

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