Wedding
Planning Guide
Everything You Need to Plan Your Perfect Day
Planning a wedding in the Great Ocean Road, Otways and Hinterland regions? Our Wedding Planning Guide brings together practical information, local knowledge and helpful resources to support you throughout the planning process.
From ceremony locations and marriage requirements to accommodation, transport and seasonal considerations, you’ll find everything you need to create a seamless and memorable celebration in one of Victoria’s most breathtaking wedding destinations.
Choosing Your Ceremony Location
Beach Weddings
The Otways and Great Ocean Road feature some of Victoria’s most spectacular beaches and coastal settings, offering a beautiful natural backdrop for weddings and elopements.
Before planning a beach ceremony, consider tides, wind, weather conditions, public access, guest accessibility, parking and wet weather alternatives. Some beaches may also require approval from the relevant land manager, local council or coastal authority depending on the location, guest numbers and event setup.
Popular locations include:
- Apollo Bay
- Marengo
- Johanna Beach
- Separation Creek
- Wye River
- Port Campbell
- Lorne
- Aireys Inlet
Things to Consider:
- Permit requirements
- Public access
- Tides and weather conditions
- Wind exposure
- Accessibility for guests
- Parking availability
- Wet weather alternatives
Beach Wedding Permit Links
Beaches may require approval from the relevant land manager or local council depending on the size and nature of the event. For beach weddings on land managed by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority, couples are required to apply for a permit.
Consumption of alcohol on Great Ocean Road foreshore reserves is prohibited. If you wish to serve alcohol, please seek permission from the relevant local Council
Useful links:
National Park Weddings
The Great Otway National Park and Great Otway State Forest offer some of Victoria’s most breathtaking locations for weddings and elopements. From towering forests and lush rainforest settings to dramatic coastal lookouts and secluded natural clearings, these landscapes provide an unforgettable backdrop for couples seeking a ceremony immersed in nature.
Many locations within the National Park and State Forest require approval before a ceremony can take place. Permit requirements vary depending on the location, guest numbers, photography arrangements and any structures or equipment proposed for the event.
Couples should always seek approval before planning a ceremony within National Park land.
Permit Requirements (many locations within the National Park require):
- Event permits
- Photography permits
- Commercial operator approvals
- Environmental management considerations
- Important Considerations
- Protected vegetation
- Guest numbers
- Vehicle access
- Temporary structures
- Amplified music restrictions
- Leave-no-trace requirements
National Park Wedding Permit Links
Before confirming a National Park or State Forest location, couples should contact the relevant land manager to determine permit requirements and approval processes. Additional permits may be required for commercial photography, videography or larger wedding gatherings.
Useful links:
Popular locations include:
- Otway Redwoods
- Lake Elizabeth
- Melba Gully
- Hopetoun Falls
- Triplet Falls
- Teddy’s Lookout
- Marriners Lookout
- Cape Otway
- Blanket Bay
- Aire River
- Stevensons Falls
- Maits Rest Rainforest Walk
Things to Consider:
- Permit requirements
- Public access
- Tides and weather conditions
- Wind exposure
- Accessibility for guests
- Parking availability
- Wet weather alternatives
Botanic Gardens & Public Gardens
Public gardens offer beautiful landscaped settings and are often popular for ceremonies.
Possible locations include:
- Colac Botanic Gardens
- Yeowarra Hill
- The Perch Lavers Hill
- Local council gardens and reserves
Permit Requirements
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Private properties provide flexibility, privacy and the opportunity to create a truly personalised experience.
Many Otway wedding venues offer:
Ceremony and reception locations:
- On-site accommodation
- Catering facilities
- Styling flexibility
- Wet weather options
Always confirm:
- Venue capacity
- Council approvals
- Noise restrictions
- Access requirements
- Forest Weddings
Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering trees and native birdlife.
Forest weddings are becoming increasingly popular throughout the Otways.
Important considerations include:
- Access and parking
- Weather conditions
- Guest comfort
- Permit requirements
- Environmental protection guidelines
- Legal Requirements for Marriage in Australia
Regardless of where you choose to marry, Australian marriage laws remain the same.
Before Your Wedding
You must:
✔ Lodge a Notice of Intended Marriage (NOIM)
✔ Lodge the NOIM at least one month before your wedding date
✔ Provide proof of identity
✔ Meet Australian marriage eligibility requirements
On The Day
You will need:
✔ An authorised Marriage Celebrant
✔ Two witnesses aged 18 years or older
✔ Completion of legal documentation
Weather & Seasonal Considerations
Summer (December – February)
Perfect for:
- Beach weddings
- Coastal celebrations
Consider:
- Heat
- Bushfire risk
- Peak tourism season
Autumn (March – May)
Perfect for:
- Forest ceremonies
- Country weddings
- Mild temperatures
Winter (June – August)
Perfect for:
- Cosy indoor celebrations
- Fireplaces and intimate venues
- Dramatic coastal photography
Spring (September – November)
Perfect for:
- Garden ceremonies
- Wildflower displays
- Mild weather