Civil unions
It is no longer possible to enter into a civil union.
Read about civil partnerships.
Civil unions were created by the ACT Government in 2012 because at the time, same sex couples couldn’t marry under the Marriage Act 1961 (Cth).
Entering a civil union created a legal relationship that is treated in the same way as a marriage under ACT law.
When the Marriage Act was amended in 2017 to allow same sex couples to marry, the law for civil unions, Civil Unions Act 2012 (Civil Unions Act), was made redundant. No new relationships can be registered under the Civil Unions Act.
Existing civil unions
If you’re in a same sex relationship that was registered as a civil union, you don’t need to do anything.
Your civil union is recognised as a marriage under ACT law, and you have access to the same rights as a married couple in the ACT.
You have the option to marry but there is no expectation that those in civil unions alter their registered relationship status.
Interstate recognition
Federal and other state and territory laws may not recognise your union in the same manner as the ACT.
If you intend to live outside the ACT, you should be aware of any other requirements for verifying your relationship status.
Request a civil union certificate.
You can request a copy of your civil union certificate online.
Access is assessed against the criteria in the Births, Deaths and Marriages Access Policy [PDF 392KB] for marriage certificates.
To apply:
- Complete the Application for a certificate form.
- Keep a copy of the receipt number.
- Show your identification when your certificate arrives by registered post.
View acceptable forms of identification.
Apply for a certificate online
For information about a fee waiver, email bdm@act.gov.au or call Access Canberra on 13 22 81.
Fee waivers will be assessed against the Birth, Deaths and Marriages Financial Hardship Fee Waiver Policy (PDF 380kB).