what is an independent marriage celebrant?

Independent means not affiliated with a religious denomination. 

In saying this, there is always an option to have some aspects of religion if requested.  There have been a few requests in this regard and I have absolutely no objection or problem including this in your ceremony.  I am sincere when I include this and believe myself.

I am not aware that tere is such a celebrant

We dont use the word independent as it can be ambigious.  Apart from the registry, and armed forces or overseas consular officials we only have three type of celebrants- 

• Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrants who perform civil ceremonies
• Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrants who perform religious ceremonies for independent religious organisations.
• Ministers of religion

A marriage celebrant who is commonwelth registered, complies with the Code of Practice for Celebrants, solemnises marriages according to the legal requirements of th Marriage Act, observes the laws o fthe  Commonwealth and of State or Territory, and ensures no unlawful discrimination in the provision of marriage celebrancy services

Yes it does :) 

Celebrants were originally set up as an alternative in the days when every wedding had to be in a church or the registry office! Those were the only options. Nowadays some celebrants have their own religious beliefs and most will include a prayer if that is what clients want. Celebrants give a freedom to decide how couples and families want to celebrate a wedding or conduct a funeral. 

Celebrants are authorised to conduct weddings according to the law and to look after the legalities of the paperwork for a registered marriage. They work with couples for the ceremony that fits their preferences for their big day.

Independent marriage celebrants are non religious, practice within the boundaries of the Marriage Act 1961 and provides ceremonies that meet the needs of both the couple and legal requirements as set down by law.

All that said, even though there are serious and legally binding words and promises to be made, the rest of the ceremony is all about you, your love, your story. And that can be told however you would like with the celebrant that you choose.

Hope yours is a good one!

As the word implies, Independent means not affiliated with a religious denomination. 

Every non-religious marriage celebrant operates independantly within the limitations of the Marriage Act 1961.

You are able to craft a ceremony that reflects your wishes which may include some religious aspect such as a prayer.

The word 'independent' is subjective and could mean a few different things but I would say majority of the people who use that term would be appying that they are a civil (non-religious) celebrant.