Hey everyone! I don’t know about you, but over the years, I’ve spent way too many hours scrolling the internet looking for that perfect new outfit—especially something I haven’t already worn to a previous wedding! It’s always a balance between keeping it classy and professional while also sticking to a budget. Recently, I’ve noticed a few groups popping up where people buy and sell pre-loved outfits. It’s a great way to keep things fresh without breaking the bank. I’d love to know if any of you are already part of these groups! Which ones do you think have the best selection, especially when it comes to a good range of sizes? And does anyone know of groups that cater to both men's and women’s outfits? If we’re not already in one, maybe Lyndal if you still have the one you set up, you could list it in the chat and we could fill this space listing our own “old favourites” and possibly find a new gem! I know my closet could use a clean-out, and I’m always on the lookout for my next go-to outfit. What do you all think? Let’s keep each other looking sharp for those ceremonies! 😊

The United Celebrant Network (TUCN) is proud to announce the Heart Foundation as our charity of choice, dedicating May each year to heart health. As celebrants, the heart holds a special place in our lives, symbolising love, connection, and the joy we strive to bring to every ceremony. However, for many, it also holds a more serious, personal significance, as heart conditions have impacted the lives of loved ones—and even our own members. ❤️ For two of our committee members, heart health is deeply personal, having faced heart-related challenges in recent years. This shared experience has made May a meaningful time for us to come together, both in remembrance and action, to inspire positive change in our community. By organising fun and engaging events each May, we aim to promote heart health awareness, encourage proactive self-care, and raise funds for the Heart Foundation to support their incredible work. ❤️ This initiative is more than just a campaign; it’s a way to foster connections with others, both by raising awareness and potentially influencing someone we care about to prioritise their heart health. Supporting a cause as impactful as the Heart Foundation aligns with TUCN’s values, bringing us together not only to celebrate love but also to advocate for the wellbeing of ourselves and those around us. This is our way of giving back, strengthening our community, and hopefully making a difference, one heart at a time. ❤️ If you volunteer or give make to a charity regularly, what one is it and what do you appreciate about this space - we would love to hear all about it?❤️

There is so much you can do within your communities to get involved in events, celebrations, education and networking from just a few minutes on a google search we found the following and ALL can help you grow as a person and as a Celebrancy business owner; Resources | Minus18 Our history - Equality Australia Home - Deaf Australia Celebrant Associations and Networks | Attorney-General's Department Australian Chamber of Commerce and IndustryHome - Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Adult and community education | NSW Government Community Education in Australia | Community Colleges Australian Conservation Foundation Planet Ark There are many more options out in your community... this is just a start. What do you do in your community?

We have made contact with the wonderful organisation called Minus18, we encourage you to look them up and visit their pages if you havent in the past. We aim to keep our members up to date with training and education around language and being an ally to all people. Here is a great article from Minus18's website on How to be a trans ally. Happy reading and viewing their site! How to be a trans ally | Minus18

Whether you’re a new celebrant or looking to enhance your skills, knowing where to find the best resources is essential for staying compliant with the law, keeping up to date with best practices, and building a strong professional network. Here’s a guide to the most important resources and support networks available to Australian celebrants. Key Legal Resources for Australian Celebrants 1. The Marriage Act 1961The Marriage Act 1961 is the cornerstone of Australian marriage law. It outlines the legal framework for marriages, including the responsibilities of marriage celebrants and the procedures for conducting a legal marriage. Every celebrant should be familiar with this Act.Read the Marriage Act 1961 2. Marriage Regulations 2017The Marriage Regulations 2017 support the Marriage Act and provide further details on the processes and documentation required for legal marriages.Read the Marriage Regulations 2017 3. Guidelines for Marriage CelebrantsThe Guidelines on the Marriage Act 1961 for Marriage Celebrants provide practical advice on how to meet legal obligations when officiating marriages. It covers everything from completing the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) to lodging marriage paperwork.View the Guidelines for Marriage Celebrants Celebrancy Networks and Associations Joining a Celebrancy Network or Association is a great way to access ongoing support, resources, and training. Many associations offer opportunities to connect with other celebrants, gain advice on legal and business matters, and participate in professional development. Here are some options: 1. The United Celebrant Network (TUCN)TUCN was created to fill a gap in the market by offering affordable, practical, and genuine support to celebrants. Our network emphasizes everyday topics in regular training sessions, providing hands-on tools that help celebrants navigate real-world challenges. We offer educational programs and events designed to help celebrants become the best they can be, through mentorship, workshops, and peer support.Learn more at The United Celebrant Network 2. Other Celebrancy AssociationsThere are many associations in Australia that cater to different celebrancy needs, around 14-16 at any given time. While each has its own offerings, they all provide valuable services, such as professional development opportunities, legal support, and community-building. The United Celebrants Network is part of the AMC (see details below) this group has been a great resource for The Unleashed Collective over the last few years. The CEO has worked alongside AMC at conference, for Training members, with advice, and interim Committee Member during a time of change. 3. The United Celebrant Network is also a member of CoCA. CoCA is a body where TUCN can represent and bring forward our ideas to other committees, all to be discussed at the AGs meetings or amongst our peers. CoCA has been running for some years, like many associations and has a wealth of experience and skill within the members. All good networks, share incredible skills and knowledge which really can be an asset to others.  • Australian Marriage Celebrant Association (AMC) Australian Marriage Celebrants Incorporated: Marriage Ceremonies, Celebrants, Australia, Civil Celebrant, Wedding Celebrant • Coalition of Celebrant Associations (CoCA) Coalition of Celebrant Associations (CoCA) • Australian Celebrant Associations and Networks Celebrant Associations and Networks | Attorney-General's Department (ag.gov.au)   Why Join a Celebrant Network? Being part of a celebrant network or association ensures you have the support you need throughout your career. These organisations offer: • Access to Resources: Get the latest forms, templates, and tools to assist you with legal and business requirements. • Ongoing Professional Development (OPD): Stay compliant with your annual OPD obligations through tailored workshops and courses. • Networking Opportunities: Connect with other celebrants, share experiences, and build professional relationships. • Mentorship and Advice: Get support from experienced celebrants who can guide you through complex cases or help you with practical queries. At The United Celebrant Network, we’re focused on providing real-world training in practical, everyday topics. We understand that celebrants need more than just the basics—they need continuous learning, networking, and support to thrive. Our goal is to help celebrants across Australia be the best they can be, with regular training events, peer-to-peer learning, and a supportive community. By combining the right legal resources with the support of a strong celebrant network, you can ensure you’re not only meeting your legal obligations but also growing and thriving in your role as a celebrant.

Many new celebrants can feel overwhelmed when starting out, especially when it comes to understanding the roles of different government bodies. Two key entities you’ll interact with are the Attorney General’s Marriage Law & Celebrant Section and the Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) offices in each state or territory. It’s important to know the distinction between these bodies and your responsibilities as a marriage celebrant for each. Attorney General’s Marriage Law & Celebrant Section (AGD) – Managing Your Registration The Attorney General’s Marriage Law & Celebrant Section is responsible for: • Managing your registration as a marriage celebrant in Australia. • Ensuring compliance with the Marriage Act 1961 and other legislation governing celebrants. As a registered celebrant, here’s what you need to know: 1. Annual Registration Fee:Each year, you must pay a $170 registration fee via the Marcel Portal to maintain your status as an authorized celebrant. This fee must be paid regardless of whether you conduct any marriages that year. 2. Ongoing Professional Development (OPD):To maintain your registration, you are also required to complete a certain amount of Ongoing Professional Development (OPD) annually. This ensures you are up to date with changes in marriage law and best practices. Failing to complete OPD could result in the suspension or cancellation of your registration. 3. Marcel Portal:Through the Marcel Portal, you can pay your annual registration, update your personal information, and track your OPD requirements. It’s the administrative hub for managing your duties as a celebrant under the Marriage Law and Celebrant Section. Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) – Registering Your Clients’ Marriages While the Attorney General’s Department oversees your status as a celebrant, once you officiate a marriage, you’ll need to work with the Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) registry in the state or territory where the marriage takes place. This is a separate responsibility. 1. Registering a Marriage:After you conduct a marriage ceremony, you are legally required to register the marriage with the relevant BDM office within 14 days. This involves submitting the completed and signed Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and other required documents, including the signed official marriage certificate. 2. State-Specific Requirements:Each state or territory has its own BDM office and procedures for registering marriages, so it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the process in your location. You’ll need to follow the specific instructions for lodging forms, which may include submitting them in person or electronically. Key Differences: • Attorney General’s Marriage Law & Celebrant Section (AGD): • Manages your registration as a celebrant. • Requires you to complete OPD and pay the annual $170 fee via the Marcel Portal. • Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM): • Manages the registration of marriages in each state and territory. • Requires celebrants to lodge completed marriage documents within 14 days after the ceremony. Summary: • AGD is focused on you as a celebrant, ensuring you stay registered, pay fees, and complete ongoing education. • BDM is focused on registering the marriages you conduct and handling legal documentation for each couple. As a celebrant, it’s crucial to stay on top of both sets of responsibilities. Failing to maintain your registration with the AGD could result in losing your ability to conduct weddings, while failing to register a marriage with BDM could result in legal consequences for both you and the couple. By understanding these differences, you’ll be better prepared to manage your role effectively.

As a registered marriage celebrant in Australia, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest tools and resources provided by the Attorney General’s Department. One of the most important resources is the Marcel Portal, which allows celebrants to manage their registration and access key information and services. What is the Marcel Portal? The Marcel Portal is an online platform where registered celebrants can perform a range of administrative tasks related to their celebrant registration. It’s designed to streamline processes and make it easier for celebrants to meet their legal obligations under Australian marriage law. Key Functions of the Marcel Portal: 1. Manage Your Registration:The portal allows celebrants to view and update their registration details, ensuring that all personal and business information is accurate and up-to-date. 2. Submit Your Annual Registration Charge:Each year, celebrants are required to pay an annual registration charge to maintain their status. The Marcel Portal provides a straightforward process for completing this payment. 3. Access to Forms and Resources:Celebrants can download important forms, such as the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) and other legal documents required for performing ceremonies. The portal also provides guidance documents to help celebrants remain compliant with the latest regulations. 4. Submit Professional Development Information:Registered celebrants must complete annual professional development. The portal allows you to submit evidence of your completed activities and track your progress to ensure you meet your obligations. 5. Stay Informed:The Marcel Portal provides access to updates and important announcements from the Marriage Law and Celebrants Section. This ensures that celebrants are always aware of any legislative changes, requirements, or new resources. How to Access the Marcel Portal: To access the Marcel Portal, follow these steps: 1. Visit the official page on the Attorney General’s Department website:Manage Your Registration – Marcel Portal 2. Log in using your registered celebrant details. If you’re logging in for the first time, you’ll need to follow the instructions to set up your account. 3. Once logged in, you’ll have access to the full suite of tools to manage your registration, download forms, and stay compliant with your professional obligations. Support and Assistance: If you have any trouble accessing the Marcel Portal or managing your registration, the Marriage Law and Celebrants Section is available to assist you. The page provides contact details for further support. By using the Marcel Portal, celebrants can efficiently manage their duties and ensure they remain compliant with all legal requirements, making it an invaluable tool for the celebrancy profession.

As part of the legal requirements for marriage in Australia, the Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) is a crucial document that must be completed by both parties intending to marry, and the celebrant facilitating the process. Here, we outline the responsibilities of both clients and celebrants to ensure compliance with Australian marriage law. Client Responsibilities: 1. Submission of the NOIM Form:Clients must submit the NOIM form to their celebrant at least one month before the wedding. The form is valid for up to 18 months, so it can be submitted well in advance. 2. Personal Details & Documentation:You must complete your personal details on the NOIM form. Make sure to provide full, accurate information, including names, birthplaces, and marital status.You are also required to provide the following documentation: • Original birth certificate or passport for proof of identity and age. • If either party has been married before, proof of the dissolution or death of the previous spouse is required (e.g., divorce papers or a death certificate). 3. Signing the NOIM:Both parties must sign the NOIM in the presence of an authorised witness. In Australia, this could be your celebrant, a police officer, or a JP. If signing outside of Australia, you must do so before a notary public, an Australian diplomatic/consular officer, or an equivalent authority. 4. Ongoing Communication:Ensure you communicate any changes to your circumstances (e.g., name changes, relocation) to your celebrant. This helps prevent delays or legal complications. Celebrant Responsibilities: 1. Receiving the NOIM:Celebrants are responsible for receiving and lodging the NOIM at least one month before the marriage takes place. They must confirm that it is correctly filled out, signed, and witnessed as per legal requirements. 2. Verifying Documentation:Celebrants must verify the identities of the parties by reviewing original documents such as birth certificates, passports, or divorce/death certificates. They must ensure these documents are valid and correctly referenced in the NOIM. 3. Informing Clients of Legal Obligations:Celebrants have a duty to inform clients about their legal rights and obligations under Australian law. This includes outlining the requirement to sign a Declaration of No Legal Impediment to Marriage shortly before the wedding. 4. Storing & Submitting Documents:Celebrants must securely store the NOIM and related documents until the wedding is conducted. After the marriage ceremony, celebrants are responsible for lodging the marriage paperwork with the appropriate Registry of Births, Deaths, and Marriages within 14 days. 5. Assistance and Guidance:Celebrants should be available to offer assistance in completing the NOIM and ensure all sections are filled out correctly. They should also guide clients through any legal queries and provide clear instructions on documentation requirements. Useful Resources: • Attorney General’s Marriage Law and Celebrant Section:Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM) Information • Australia Marriage Celebrants Association:Legal Requirements for Completing a NOIM By understanding and fulfilling these responsibilities, both clients and celebrants can ensure that the legal process of submitting the NOIM is smooth, efficient, and compliant with Australian marriage law.