Some frequently asked questions about our courses and being a celebrant
After I complete the Marriage course, will I be automatically be registered and approved as a Marriage Celebrant?
Not automatically — the Commonwealth Attorney-General's department conducts mandatory background checks to ensure you are a “fit and proper person” to conduct marriage ceremonies. You are also required to complete an application form from the Attorney General's Department. You may, however, perform other types of ceremonies immediately. This includes marriage vow renewal, commitment ceremonies, naming and funeral ceremonies. For more information on the Attorney-General's “fit and proper person” criteria, you should visit the Commonwealth Government’s website.
Do I have to be a JP (Justice of the Peace) to become a Marriage Celebrant?
There is no requirement to be a JP.
By completing the official course, will I be able to conduct religious ceremonies?
Our qualifications allow you to function as a civil celebrant and marriage celebrant. But they do not allow you to conduct religious ceremonies. Major religions have their own separate appointment system.
Do I need to use a computer to do my course?
We strongly recommend it. In circumstances where you cannot access a computer, it is possible to negotiate alternative arrangements with your trainers.
Do you provide face-to-face tuition as well as correspondence courses?
We provide both! We schedule face-to-face classes regularly in most Australian Capital Cities and would-be celebrants can begin a distance (on-line) course or qualification at anytime!
How much does a Marriage Celebrant charge per wedding?
It varies from celebrant to celebrant. There is no set schedule of fees, but most celebrants charge approximately between $500 and $750 for their services depending on the requirements.
How much does the official Marriage Celebrant course cost?
You can view the schedule of fees for all our courses on our fees page. Remember, we offer a Best Price Guarantee on all our courses — if you find it more inexpensive elsewhere, we will match it!
How long do your courses take?
Students have up to 7 months to complete our courses. The distance courses are self-paced, and takes most people around six to eight weeks if they study for an hour or two every day. The Certificate IV in Celebrancy course, students also have up to 7 months to complete this course, whether you complete it via distance or face to face. Our classroom courses are much faster, but achieve precisely the same qualification. If you need more time to complete the course, you can apply for a 3 month extension for a small fee. This extension applies from the date your course expires.
After I enrol online in a distance education course, how long will it be before I can start?
You can begin straight away through your student portal, or we can post a hard copy of your manual to you. Once they’ve arrived (this can take a few days, depending on where you live) you can begin right away.
Why are your course fees so low?
We often wonder why the fees of other trainers are so high! At the Academy of Celebrancy, we believe education should be priced fairly. Accordingly, we have structured our fees to be the fairest in Australia — without compromising the quality of the training we provide.
What sort of training can I expect?
We deliver comprehensive, competency-based training that emphasises exercises to build practical skills, knowledge and self-confidence. This commitment to hone your skills as a celebrant to the highest level is backed by unlimited trainer access and mentor support, and course materials of the highest quality — designed and delivered by practicing celebrants with decades of experience.
How long will it be until I can start advertising and performing ceremonies if I am approved as a Marriage Celebrant?
Once the Attorney-General approves your registration —generally taking up to three months, you can then start promoting your services and performing ceremonies.