How do I change my name after Marriage?

Changing your name after marriage in Australia is relatively straightforward, but can be a little confusing to start off. There are a few steps and things to keep in mind, here’s a handy breakdown of what you need to know:

✅ You’re Not Legally Required to Change Your Name

After marriage, it's your personal choice whether to:

  • Take your spouse’s surname

  • Hyphenate or combine both surnames

  • Keep your own surname

📄 You Don’t Need a Legal Name Change—Just Your Marriage Certificate

If you’re simply taking your spouse’s surname, you don’t need a formal name change through Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM). You can just use your official marriage certificate as proof.

Note: This must be the official certificate from the state registry (not the ceremonial one from your wedding day, although this is also a legal Australian document).

🧾 Order Your Marriage Certificate

If you haven't already, apply for your official marriage certificate from the BDM in the state or territory where you were married:

🔄 Start Updating Your Records

Once you have your certificate, you’ll need to update your name with:

  • Driver’s licence / Photo ID (usually the first thing to update)

  • Passport (a bit more involved – see below)

  • Medicare

  • Banks and credit cards

  • Superannuation

  • ATO / MyGov

  • Insurance policies

  • Utility companies

  • Employer and payroll

  • University or education providers

Most institutions will accept the marriage certificate + your old ID as proof.

✈️ Changing Your Passport

You’ll need to:

  • Fill out a "passport renewal" or "name change" form with the Australian Passport Office

  • Provide your marriage certificate and ID

  • Possibly provide new passport photos

  • There’s no fee if your current passport is still valid and you’re just changing the name due to marriage (conditions apply)

📝 If You Want a Totally New Name

If you’re creating a new surname or not using either spouse’s surname, you’ll need to apply for a legal name change through BDM. That process is more formal and has extra requirements.

Some companies will do all of the work for you to save you the hassle, like Easy Name Change.

More information about changing your name through marriage in Queensland.

Let me know if you have any questions at all about changing your surname after Marriage or anything about Marriage Ceremonies in Australia.

Trudy the Brisbane Celebrant x

Brisbane Celebrant_Certificate of Marriage
Trudy Worden