If you have had a civil marriage ceremony or are planning to have one, or have used the services of a civil celebrant for another type of civil ceremony such as a baby naming, wedding anniversary, renewal of vows, commitment, memorial or funeral, or may do so in the future ….
- Civil marriages will be hit with extra charges. The Commonwealth Marriage Program will charge civil celebrants an annual fee at an average of $91 per wedding from 2013 that will be passed onto their couples.
- Consequently 60% of couples will need to pay the system an extra $ 4.2 million each year!
- Find out more
Then
- spread the news on Facebook or how ever else you can
- use this Say No to Marriage Tax image on Facebook and your websites – you can download small and large web images from this link image page on this website
- give people the link to this page
http://www.celebrantsequality.org.au/lobby-for-equal-treatment/read-more/for-community-members/
- express your concerns in Australia local radio, local newspaper or other media about the impact of this latest “tax” on civil marriage marriages and independent celebrants
- contact your MP and / or Senator
SEE the main points of concern
If you value the role of civil ceremonies in Australia’s multi-cultural democratic society, giving as they respect for all participants regardless of their race, gender, religion or abilities, please also ….
Australian Multicultural Council (AMC)
AMC Secretariat
PO Box 25,
Belconnen ACT 2616
Email: AMC Secretariat
amc.secretariat@amc.gov.au
The AMC’s priorities are covered in its terms of reference which are to:
- advise the government on multicultural affairs
- have a formal role in a strengthened access and equity strategy
- have a research and advisory role around multicultural policy
- assist with cultural diversity celebrations and Harmony Day activities
- implement a ‘People of Australia Ambassadors’ Program to articulate the benefits of, and help celebrate, our multicultural nation.
Are not civil celebrants and civil ceremonies an important part of developing inclusive ceremonies in Australia?
I totally agree with you. In my opinion the current Federal Government is off the rails.
As far as I am concerned Authorised Celebrants are being discriminated against by virtue of the fact that Court officials and Ministers of Religion are not subject to the annual OPD activity or the proposed $600 licence fee.
As it is the OPD cost a minimum of $115.00 so put the two together and you are looking at an initial cost of $715.00. Don’t forget the initial cost with the training organisation to obtain the required qualifications in the first instance.
All costs need to be factored into the equation.
It may be possible to challenge this matter in the courts on the basis of discrimination.
Best wishes,