Changing your name after marriage is an exciting step that symbolises a new chapter in life. If you’re wondering how to change your name after marriage, you’re not alone – many couples find the process confusing. While it may feel daunting to tackle all the paperwork, breaking the process down into manageable steps can make it much simpler. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to officially change your name in Australia.
Step 1: Obtain Your Official Marriage Certificate
The first and most important document you will need is your official marriage certificate. While you may have received a ceremonial certificate on your wedding day, this is not sufficient for legal purposes. You will need to apply for the official certificate from the registry of births, deaths, and marriages (BDM) in the state or territory where you were married. Each state has slightly different processes and fees, so check your local BDM’s website for specific details.
Step 2: Decide on Your New Name
Before beginning the name change process, decide on the name you’d like to take. In Australia, most people opt to either:
- Take their partner’s last name,
- Hyphenate both surnames, or
- Create a combined last name.
There is no requirement to officially register a name change if you are taking or hyphenating your partner’s surname. However, if you are creating an entirely new surname, you will need to go through a formal name change process at the BDM.
Step 3: Update Your Identification Documents
Once you have your official marriage certificate, the next step is to update your identification documents. Start with the following:
Driver’s Licence
- Visit your state’s transport department (e.g., Queensland Transport, VicRoads, Service NSW) with your official marriage certificate and current driver’s licence.
- You will often need to complete a form and may be required to provide additional ID such as a passport or proof of address.
Passport
- To change your name on your Australian passport, submit the “PC7 form” for a replacement passport. You will need your marriage certificate, current passport, and appropriate fees. If your current passport has at least two years of validity left, the replacement is usually issued free of charge.
- Keep in mind that travel bookings must match the name on your passport, so avoid changing this document until after any upcoming trips.
Medicare
- Update your name with Medicare by visiting a Medicare office or using your myGov account. You will need your marriage certificate and existing Medicare card.
Step 4: Notify Key Organisations and Institutions
After updating your primary identification, you will need to inform a variety of other organisations about your new name. Here is a checklist of common organisations to contact:
- Banks and Financial Institutions: Visit your bank in person with your marriage certificate and updated ID to change the name on your accounts, credit cards and loans.
- Employer: Provide your employer with a copy of your updated ID to ensure your payroll and records reflect your new name.
- Superannuation Funds: Notify your super fund of your name change to keep your retirement savings records accurate.
- Insurance Providers: Update your information with health, car, home, pet and life insurance providers.
- Utilities: Contact your electricity, gas, water, phone and internet providers to update your name on your accounts.
- Electoral Roll: Update your name with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) online or by submitting a paper form.
- Australian Tax Office (ATO): You can update your name via your myGov account linked to the ATO.
- Professional Licences: If you hold any professional registrations or licences, be sure to update these as well.
- Loyalty Programs and Subscriptions: Don’t forget to update your name with frequent flyer programs, gym memberships and subscription services.
Step 5: Notify Family and Friends
While it is not legally required, it is helpful to let friends and family know about your new name. You may or may not choose to update your name on social media.
Tips to Make the Process Easier
- Keep Multiple Copies of Your Marriage Certificate: It’s a good idea to order a few certified copies of your marriage certificate. Many organisations will require an original or certified copy, so having extras can save time. Personally, my husband and I have one official document and 4-5 photocopied documents which we then had certified by a JP.
- Track Your Progress: Create a checklist of organisations to notify and tick them off as you go. This will ensure you don’t miss any important updates.
- Allow Time: Changing your name is not an instant process. Some organisations may take a few weeks to process your request, so patience is key!
Changing your name after marriage is a meaningful process but it does involve some effort and lots of time to get all your documents and accounts in order. Take your time moving through your checklist and in no time you’ll have your brand new name!
Keep in mind that I have gone through this exact process before so if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out and I would be happy to help!
