Same-sex marriages performed in Australia

Australia celebrated its first same-sex marriages on Saturday under the threat of a court challenge that could render the unions invalid within days.

Shortly after midnight (1300 GMT Friday), gay couples began tying the knot under a recently passed law legalising same-sex unions in the Australian Capital Territory, which surrounds and includes the capital Canberra.

The first ceremonies were celebrated a minute after the territory's Marriage Equality Act came into force. Among those getting married was a state legislator from Western Australia state, Stephen Dawson, who married his long-time partner Dennis Liddelow.

Same-sex couples wishing to tie the knot may only have a few days in which to do so. The act has been challenged by the conservative federal government on the grounds it conflicts with federal law.

A ruling on its legality by the High Court, Australia's highest court, is due on December 12.