Historically, Australians typically married in their early 20s during the mid-20th century. However, since the late 1970s, with changing societal norms and an emphasis on education and careers, the age at first marriage began to rise.

In recent decades, most Australians have trended towards marrying in their late 20s to early 30s, reflecting shifts in personal and economic priorities.

Legal Aspects

The minimum age to legally marry is 16. However, those aged 16 or 17 cannot marry without obtaining a judge’s approval and must also have parental or guardian consent.

It’s essential to note that marriages involving individuals under 16 are not legally recognized in Australia. Our divorce lawyers can share more information about the legal aspects of marriage in Australia.

Best Age to Get Married Statistics

Australia’s median age at first marriage was 29.4 years for women and 30.8 years for males in 2021, according to the Australian Institute of Family Studies.

Accordingly, 30.8 years or older for men and 29.4 years or older for women were the minimum marriage age in Australia in 2021.

As what is good for one individual may not be suitable for another, there is no single “best” age to be married. When deciding when to get married, there are a few things to consider. These elements consist of:

Your circumstances: Your age, education, career, financial situation, and personal goals will all play a role in determining when the right time is for you to get married.
The legal requirements: The minimum age to marry in Australia is 18. However, this rule has some exceptions, such as if you have parental consent or are pregnant.
The social norms: The average age at first marriage has increased in Australia in recent years. This is due to several factors, including the increasing number of people choosing to further their education and pursue their careers before getting married.

Ultimately, the decision of when to get married is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and what is right for one person may not be right for another. If you are considering getting married, it is important to weigh all the factors involved and make the best decision for you.

Here are some additional statistics on marriage in Australia:

The number of marriages in Australia has been declining in recent years. In 2021, there were 133,200 marriages in Australia, down from 147,800 marriages in 2020.
The divorce rate in Australia has also been declining in recent years. In 2021, there were 41,800 divorces in Australia, down from 45,800 divorces in 2020.
The most common reasons for divorce in Australia are:
- Incompatibility: This includes differences in personality, values, and goals.
- Unfaithfulness: This includes physical or emotional infidelity.
- Communication problems: This includes a need for more communication, understanding, and trust.
- Financial problems include debt, unemployment, and a lack of financial security.
- Substance abuse: This includes alcohol and drug abuse.

Understanding the risks associated with marriage is crucial if you’re thinking about it. The decision to marry is huge, so you should be prepared. It’s also essential to be prepared for potential difficulties and to have reasonable expectations about marriage.

Cultural Considerations

Indigenous Australians have rich marital traditions and customs that have persisted for thousands of years. These practices often involve intricate ceremonies and rites deeply rooted in the connection to land and ancestors.

Australia has seen an influx of marital customs and norms as a multicultural nation. From Greek to Chinese, Indian to Lebanese, each culture has added layers of richness, diversifying the marriage tapestry and influencing the ages and customs of unions.

Sociological Factors

Societal norms and expectations significantly affect perceptions of the ideal marriage age. As society evolves, so do its standards, and the choices of individuals often mirror these changes.

Urbanization, higher education, and career aspirations have led to delayed marriages as individuals prioritize personal growth and stability.

Economic Considerations

Financial stability plays a crucial role in deciding marriage age. Couples often wait to achieve a degree of economic security before committing.

The cost of weddings in Australia can be substantial. Financial planning for the event and for life post-marriage is considered vital.

Psychological and Relationship Factors

Emotional maturity is a cornerstone of marital success. As individuals age, they tend to understand better themselves and what they seek in a partner.

Relationship experience offers lessons and insights that can be invaluable for marital compatibility and harmony.

Pros and Cons of Marrying at Different Ages

Younger age (early 20s and below)

Pros: More years together, adaptability, shared youthful adventures.
Cons: Potential financial strains, the potential for maturity mismatches.

Mid-age (mid-20s to early 30s)

Pros: Economic security, emotional depth, and defined career trajectories.
Cons: Potential fertility challenges, possible entrenched individual habits.

Older age (mid-30s and above)

Pros: Both emotional and financial grounding, clear vision for the future.
Cons: Health concerns may arise, and potential resistance to change.

Role of Education and Career

Advanced studies and career goals can significantly delay marriage decisions. Pursuing higher education often requires time and financial resources, pushing personal commitments like marriage aside. Additionally, career-focused individuals might relocate or aim to achieve professional milestones first. As societal norms shift, many prioritize personal growth, education, and career progression over early marriage, leading to a trend of marrying later in life.

Also read: What Is A Jewish Divorce: Top Things You Should Know

Marriage and Divorce in Australia

Australia’s marriage and divorce patterns have evolved, mirroring global shifts and influenced by societal, economic, and cultural changes. The average age at first marriage has risen, with men marrying around 32 and women at 30.

This increase is attributed to prioritizing higher education, career goals, and economic stability. Moreover, the multicultural fabric of Australia has introduced diverse marriage customs, further shaping matrimonial trends.

As for divorce, Australia adopted a no-fault divorce system in 1975, necessitating couples to separate for a year before filing for divorce. The divorce rate has remained relatively stable, with about 2 out of every 1,000 people divorcing annually.

The average marriage that ends in divorce lasts around 12 years. Several elements influence divorce rates, including age at marriage, financial pressures, societal acceptance of divorce, and debates around the impact of pre-marital cohabitation.

Australia’s marital landscape reflects changing individual choices and societal paradigms.

Also read: Amicable Divorce: Legal Insights for a Smooth Journey

Curious About the Best Age to Marry in Australia?

Navigating the world of marriage can be complex, and the right age varies for everyone.

If you’re pondering when to tie the knot in Australia, let Justice Family Lawyers guide you through the nuances. With years of expertise, we’re here to help you make informed decisions. Reach out to Justice Family Lawyers today, and let’s find your perfect moment together!

Hayder Shkara

Principal of Justice Family Lawyers, Hayder specialises in complex parenting and property family law matters. He is based in Sydney and holds a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Communications from UTS.

www.justicefamilylawyers.com.au/about-us/hayder-shkara/

Best Age to Get Married in Australia: Statistics and the Ideal Timeline