First Same-Sex Wedding Ceremonies in United KingdomFirst Same-Sex Wedding Ceremonies in United Kingdom

On 29 March 2014 Registry offices across the United Kingdom opened their doors for the first same-sex wedding ceremonies.

Same-sex couples have been able to enter into 'Civil Partnerships' since 2005, a union which afforded them most of the legal rights and entitlements of married couples. The passing of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 has taken matters one step further and has sent a powerful message throughout the world about marriage equality.

In Australia, the Abbott government has announced that it will have no objection to the use of the new British laws by eligible Australians. To take advantage of the laws, at least one person must be a British citizen and the ceremony must be solemnised on British consular grounds.

While this announcement has been hailed by marriage equality advocates as a sign of progress in the Australian same-sex marriage debate, couples seeking to take advantage of the British laws in Australia need to be aware that their marriage will not be recognised under Australian Law.

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