Before You Get Married: Resources You Need to Know
- Nov 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Marriage is legal, emotional, and lifelong — so it’s important to know if you’re ready. In Australia, there are resources and professional services that can help you work through questions about compatibility, commitment, and expectations.
1. Relationship Counselling & Pre-Marriage Programs
Many couples find it helpful to speak with a relationship counsellor or psychologist before getting married.
Programs like “Prepare/Enrich” or similar pre-marriage courses help you explore topics such as communication, finances, values, and family planning.
These programs aren’t just for couples with problems — they’re for anyone who wants to start their marriage strong.
2. Legal and Financial Advice
Australia has rules about property, finances, and responsibilities in marriage.
Talking to a family lawyer or financial advisor can help you understand what you’re agreeing to legally, so there are no surprises later.
It’s especially helpful for couples with complex finances, blended families, or property considerations.
3. Government Support
The Australian Government offers resources on marriage law, rights, and responsibilities.
For example, the Attorney-General’s Department website provides guidance on the legal age of marriage, forms, and obligations.
During Your Marriage
Once you’re married, life can be a wonderful adventure — but it can also bring challenges. Luckily, there’s plenty of support available in Australia to help you maintain a happy and healthy relationship.
1. Counselling and Therapy
Couples therapy isn’t just for crisis situations. Many couples see a counsellor periodically to strengthen communication, resolve conflicts early, and stay connected.
Services like relationship counselling via Lifeline, Relationships Australia, or private therapists are widely accessible.
2. Community and Support Groups
There are local and online communities for couples who want to share experiences, gain advice, or simply connect with others.
From parenting groups to hobby clubs, finding support outside your immediate relationship can help you grow together.
3. Health and Wellbeing Support
Maintaining emotional and physical health is key to a strong marriage.
Access services for mental health support, stress management, and wellbeing programs. In Australia, Beyond Blue, Headspace, and local health clinics can provide guidance.
After Marriage: Keeping Your Relationship Strong
Marriage is ongoing, and it’s normal for couples to face challenges along the way. Here are some ways to keep your relationship thriving:
1. Regular Check-Ins
Schedule time to talk honestly about your goals, feelings, and challenges.
Small, consistent communication builds resilience and trust over time.
2. Date Nights & Shared Interests
Life gets busy, but carving out regular time for each other helps maintain your connection.
Whether it’s cooking together, walking, or exploring new hobbies — the key is shared experiences.
3. Professional Help if Needed
If problems arise that you can’t resolve on your own, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from turning into major stressors.
In a Nutshell...
Marriage is more than a ceremony — it’s a journey. And just like any journey, it helps to have guidance, support, and tools along the way.
In Australia, there’s plenty of help before, during, and after your wedding: relationship counselling, pre-marriage programs, legal and financial advice, health services, and community support.
At Michelle and Dusty Wedding Ceremonies, we love helping couples create a beautiful, personalised ceremony — but we also want you to know that support doesn’t stop at “I do”. A strong foundation, good communication, and knowing where to get help can make your marriage not just official, but happy, resilient, and fulfilling.
Because your wedding day is just the start of your story — and the better prepared you are, the more joy there will be in every chapter that follows.
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