Some people wish to change their name after they are married. This is a personal decision that any person may wish to do. If you wish to change your name, please note this isn’t a quick process (I wish it was as easy as clicking a button).
Luckily, there are some organisations that can help make the process easier. I have included their links at the bottom of this page.
Below is an overview of what is involved:
1. Decide on your name
- Do you wish to take on your partners surname?
- Will you hyphenate your name? e.g. Jones-Smith
- Will you double-barrel your names? e.g. Jones Smith
- Will you create a brand new name together?
2. Required paperwork
You will need a copy of an Official Marriage Certificate from the Births Deaths & Marriages Registry (BDM). I can request this on your behalf when I register your marriage.
For more complex or creative name changes, you will need to get an official Name Change Certificate.
Please review the website for a further understanding of what is allowed and involved.
If you decide to get the Commemorative Certificate Package, you will receive the Official Marriage Certificate and the Commemorative Certificate. (Please note they are sent by registered post and may be sent separately, so don’t panic if they don’t arrive together.)
Below are the costs for the certificates:
- Standard Certificate $68 (includes postage)
- Commemorative Certificate only $44 (includes postage)
- Commemorative Certificate Package $98 (includes postage)
Click here to view the commemorative certificate design options
3. Changing your name
You will need a copy of an Official Marriage Certificate from the BDM before you can process your name change. There are however some quick wins you can complete to get the ball rolling:
- Social media – you can do this straight away. (It’s a nice idea to put your previous surname in brackets so you are still easy to find).
- Personal email – you can do this anytime, even before you get married.
- Work documentation – speak to your manager or HR about changing your email, business cards, voicemail etc.
Priority list when changing your name:
- Drivers license – take your BDM certificate to Services NSW, complete a change of name form, and they will issue you a new license. Note: they will take a new photo and cut up your old card, but your digital licence will update instantly. The new card will be posted to you.
- Medicare – it is best to get this done before updating your details with any healthcare/bank professionals, as your licence and Medicare create 100 points of ID.
You will need your updated licence to do this. - Bank accounts – use your updated license and BDM certificate to update your details with your bank
- ATO, voting, utilities, insurance etc. You will need to contact the relevant providers to request a name change. Some will require proof of ID / marriage.
- Doctors, hospitals, etc. – you can be proactive and contact them for the name change or update when you next visit.
- Passport – Be extremely careful if booking travel after your wedding using your married name. You will need to have a new passport to match your new name.
If you are travelling within a few months after your wedding and won’t have time for a new passport, it is suggested to book your travel in your current name.
If you have 2 or more years valid until your passport expires, you can get a free name change.
Please note there are many more items on the check list when changing your name however, the above are the main few to get you started. Download my name change check list below.
Need help???
Below are some companies who can help:
Celebrations by Kate 