“What's in a name?” - William Shakespeare

“That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet” …

In Australia, it is not mandatory to change your name after marriage, but if you would like to change to your partner’s name it is very easy to do so, following the simple steps in the checklist below.

There is no “name change” service fee, if you are choosing to take your spouse’s name. The only time you need to complete a ‘name change’ document and pay a fee, is when either yourself or your partner are changing to a brand new surname that neither of you currently use, or if you would like to hyphenate your names (more details on this below).

And, if you are a male and female marrying, don’t assume the Bride needs to take the Groom’s name. Either party can assume the others’ surname after marriage.

*If you would like to get married and be pronounced using a brand-new/hyphenated name, one party must legally change their name prior to your Wedding ceremony.

Changing to your spouse’s name, after marriage:

Changing your name after getting married involves several (YET SIMPLE) steps, and being in Australia, there are specific processes you need to follow. In Queensland, there isn't a single document that automatically updates all your records, including your passport, driver's license, and other official documents. However, when you change your name officially, you can use your marriage certificate (or change of name certificate).

Here's a checklist to guide you through the name change process:

  1. Marriage Certificate:

    • Obtain a copy of your official marriage certificate through Births Deaths & Marriages (in the state where you were married). BDM will email you directly regarding this, up to 4 weeks after I have lodged your paperwork, post-wedding). Make a few copies of this and have the copies stamped and witnessed by a local JP (Justice of the Peace). Call Call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) to locate your nearest JP in QLD.

  2. Australian Passport:

    • Update your passport with your new name. Fill out the Australian Passport Renewal Application form, provide the required documents including your marriage certificate, and submit the application. (Renewal fees may apply at time of updating your passport).

  3. Driver's License:

    • Visit your local Department of Transport or Roads and Maritime Services office to update your driver's license. Bring your marriage certificate, witnessed copy, current license, and any additional identification required.

  4. Medicare:

    • Update your details with Medicare. Visit a Medicare office or update your information online by logging into your Medicare online account.

  5. Bank Accounts:

    • Contact your bank to update your name on your accounts. Bring your marriage certificate and any identification required.

  6. Tax File Number (TFN):

    • Notify the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) of your name change. You can update your details online through the ATO website or by contacting them directly.

  7. Australian Electoral Commission (AEC):

    • Update your details on the electoral roll. You can do this online through the AEC website or by completing a form available at post offices.

  8. Utilities and Services:

    • Inform utility providers, such as electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications, of your name change.

  9. Employer and Payroll:

    • Notify your employer of your name change. This includes updating your details for payroll, email, and any work-related documentation.

  10. Insurance Policies:

    • Contact your insurance providers (health, car, home, etc.) to update your name on your policies.

  11. Professional Licenses and Memberships:

    • If applicable, inform any relevant professional bodies or associations of your name change.

  12. Email and Social Media:

    • If you have professional or personal accounts on platforms like email, Facebook, LinkedIn, etc., update your name.

Remember to keep copies of your marriage certificate and any correspondence related to your name change for reference. Additionally, it's advisable to complete these changes within a reasonable timeframe after your wedding.


Changing to a brand new name (used by neither yourself or your partner previously) or hyphenated name.

  1. Obtain a Change of Name Form:

    • Visit the website of the relevant state or territory's Births, Deaths, and Marriages registry to obtain the official "Change of Name" form (the one in which your birth is registered). Changing your name in Queensland?

  2. Complete the Form:

    • Fill out the "Change of Name" form with accurate and complete information.

    • Pay any applicable fees associated with the name change application.

  3. Supporting Documentation:

    • Gather supporting documents, such as proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver's license), proof of citizenship, and any additional documentation specified by the registry.

  4. Witnessing the Form:

    • Some jurisdictions require the form to be witnessed by a prescribed authority, such as a Justice of the Peace or a solicitor. Check the specific requirements of your state or territory.

  5. Submit the Application:

    • Submit the completed form and supporting documents to the relevant Births, Deaths, and Marriages registry office in your state or territory.

  1. Wait for Approval:

    • The processing time for name change applications varies, but you will receive a formal approval or rejection from the registry.

  2. Update Identification and Records:

    • As listed in “Changing to your spouse’s name, after marriage” above, steps 2-5.