"Getting married shouldn’t break the bank.

In all Australian jurisdictions except Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory, the government offers a registry marriage service where couples can tie the knot in an affordable, simple, and easy ceremony.

The demand for these registry marriage services is not insignificant. The Victorian Marriage Registry is the largest provider of wedding ceremonies in Victoria, and the New South Wales Registry marries thousands of couples each year.

Unfortunately, despite interest from Canberrans in registry weddings, a gap exists in the ACT market for a government run registry marriage service.

However, I am pleased that today, following the passage of my motion with bi-partisan support, the ACT Government has agreed to investigate the establishment of registry marriages in the ACT in consultation with the community.  

In this cost-of-living crisis, being in love shouldn’t cost Canberrans an arm and a leg."