Answered by Hansen from Canada | May. 16, 2016 22:31
Tom, you need to prepare those documents for your marriage registration in PRC: your passport, single status certificate and valid entry permit to PRC.
After you get married in PRC, you can apply for a spouse Q1 type which will allow you to get a temporary residence permit in PRC and live there. The required documents for Q1 type include your passport and copy of its data page, the application form affixed with a passport-style photo, an invitation letter from your wife, copy of her Chinese ID card, and your marriage certificate.
I think it will be easier if you get married in Australia because after you register your marriage, you can apply for a Q1 type in your home country directly.
If you register in PRC, you may enter PRC with a tourist L type first, after your marriage, you need to change your L type to Q1 type, but it’s not easy to change it in PRC. So you’d better get married in Australia.