Same Sex Civil Union Ceremonies for Queensland

In September 2015 Premier Anastasia Palaszczuk’s promised that “Every Queensland couple, no matter what their gender, deserve the right to hold a ceremony to mark their legal partnerships“.  Following on from that promise, legislation was recently passed to allow civil union ceremonies to recommence in Queensland as early at 2 April 2016.

Previously in Queensland, a civil union ceremony (similar to a marriage ceremony), was permitted, however, a change of government and legislation removed the ability for parties to have a civil union ceremony (couples were only allowed to register their relationships with the Department of Births, Deaths and Marriages, as opposed to have a ceremony to celebrate the event).

There are certain eligibility requirements for couples to enter into a civil union, which include:

1.            Both parties must be 18 years or older;

2.            Neither partner can be married to another person or already in a civil partnership;

3.            At least 1 partner must be living in Queensland.

Parties can enter into a civil union regardless of their gender.

Couples who wish to enter into a civil union can choose whether or not they would like a ceremony and, if they choose to have a ceremony, there are certain requirements as to the ceremony and the registration of the civil union.

More information regarding civil unions is available here: www.qld.gov.au/law/birth-deaths-marriages-and-divorces.

At McLaughlins Lawyers, we have an experienced team of family lawyers who can advise you on an extensive range of family law matters, including entering into a ‘pre-nup’ Financial Agreement. McLaughlins is the Gold Coast’s oldest law firm with professional and approachable lawyers providing the highest standard of innovative legal services.  Our promise to you is to be honest and trustworthy, reliable, professional, approachable, and supportive and to provide value for money.

If you seek advice regarding your family law matters, we invite you to contact McLaughlins Lawyers today on (07) 5591 5099.

Author: Joelene Nel

Partner: Sophie Pearson

Date: 31/03/2016