Couple’s celebration recognised by law

Tasmanian couple Isha Cavan and Sonja Plitt ‘tied the knot’ on the weekend in a ceremony which was recognised by law.
The couple are among the first to do so, after the Tasmanian Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages changed the way it administers the state’s Deed of Relationship to record the date of registry as the actual ceremony day.

“Having our relationship recognised in this way helps our families and the community understand that our love is as real and as valid as heterosexual love,” Plitt said.

She said it was important for the couple to express their love in a ceremony, conducted by a registered marriage celebrant, which was legally recognised.

“Ceremonies also help give children a sense of belonging, something we feel is important for our son.”

The Deed changes were made last November. Along with recognising the ceremony date, civil celebrants can conduct ceremonies with official state relationship certificates which must be signed by the celebrant, the couple and two witnesses to be legally valid — much like a marriage certificate.

Cavan and Plitt held their celebration in front of family and friends at their home near the fishing village of Orford.
So far, only the Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania officially offer couples the chance to register their relationship during a ceremony.