Coronavirus restrictions australia state by state guide weddings what you can cant do explainer 20200615 p5q6pd.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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What you can and can't do for weddings under new coronavirus rules

Bianca Farmakis

After months stuck in self-isolation, lockdown laws are lifting across the country.

The coronavirus pandemic had a dramatic impact on those planning to wed during the time – with restrictions forcing many to delay their plans.

As lockdown eases here's a state-by-state guide of what brides and grooms can do for their wedding during coronavirus.

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NSW

Previously, wedding receptions were limited to a humble 20 guests - plus the additional photographer and videographer.

Now, from July 1, provided there is enough space in the indoor venue to uphold the four-square metre distancing rule, there is no limit to the amount of guests allowed. 

"It is so important for businesses to make sure they comply with the strict guidelines that have been put in place," Premier Gladys Berejiklian told a press conference this morning.

If you're looking to attend a dress fitting however, you may be told to limit your accompanying party to one to two guests due to the small proximity of the change rooms.

Guests lists are increasing - but don't expect wedding crashers anytime soon. Tapestry Films

VICTORIA

The state of Victoria will enjoy some significant freedoms from 11:59pm, 21 of June - unfortunately weddings won't be one of them.

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Currently 20 people plus the celebrant and the couple can attend a wedding.

This will not change from 21 June and children are counted in the guest limit.

The reason for this, the DHHS explains is because "weddings have a high risk of transmission due to the nature of the celebration" as per the website.

Records of all attendees must be kept for 28 days.

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Victoria Police can issue on the spot fines of up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses for: non-compliance, with the sums increasing up to $20,000 for individuals and $100,000 for businesses are possible through the court system.

Bridesmaids, cast, movie, scene, bridal store

Restrictions on the amount guests to attend dress fittings remains subject to shop owner. Universal Pictures

WA

Congrats Western Australia! Larger weddings are allowed - but not too large.

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WA is the first state to reduce the four square metre distancing rule in half.

Also, up to 100 people per single undivided space are allowed to attend a wedding, provided social distancing and the two square metre rules are followed.

These measures were implemented in June, affording five times the amount of guests allowed at a wedding.

QLD

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The state of Queensland still has some of the strictest public gathering rules, with a cap on 20 people at weddings and places of worship.

From July 10, the number will increase five times over with 100 people permitted to attend.

"A wedding is a gathering, so yes at the moment [the limit] is 20 people who can gather," Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk confirmed.

Still from The Wedding Singer (New Line)

The Northern Territory has been one of the quickest states to return to normal.  New Line

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NT

The Northern Territory has been one of the quickest states to return to normal.

Currently in stage three of their easing of restrictions since June 5, an unlimited number of attendees at outdoor weddings exists, as long as social distancing guidelines are adhered to.

If you have interstate guests wishing to attend however, they'll need to self-isolate for two weeks upon entering the state.

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Chief Minister Michael Gunner has previously been passionate about keeping the territory's borders closed until the last minute.

TAS

Tasmania, prepare for a hump day treat - from Wednesday, gatherings (indoor and outdoor) will quadruple, from 20 to 80 people.

The state is currently in Stage Two in the lifting of restrictions, and weddings must still observe the four square metre rule. 

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Most weddings are still restricted to the four square metre rule. 

SA

Weddings are slightly subjective in South Australia - up to 80 guests are allowed to attend but it's relative to the space.

The four square metre rule must be observed, and a single enclosed room cannot have more than 20 people in it.

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So if you're having a wedding reception at a single-room restaurant, only 20 guests will be allowed - but if you're wedding is outside or in a space with multiple rooms, up to 80 are allowed.

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