The 19th of July 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the Civil Celebrants program. The program was created by Lionel Murphy, the Attorney General at the time, despite opposition from his fellow parliamentarians. I don’t think even he could have imagined how successful the program would become. With over 10,000 registered marriage celebrants in Australia today performing approximately 80% of all marriages at the location of the couples choice. It is a truly remarkable program allowing couples freedom of choice for their marriage ceremony, also bringing the Celebrant so much joy to be able to share in these special occasions.
