You want to drop your spouse’s surname, but returning to your former name feels just as unappealing.
Almost 10% of Easy Name Change survey respondents removing their spouse’s surname decided to choose a completely new name. What better way to start a new chapter than with a new name!
Unlike returning to a former surname, choosing a completely new name requires a legal name change through Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM).
Where should you apply?
If you were born in Australia, you should apply through BDM in the state or territory where your birth was registered.
If you were born overseas, apply in the state or territory where you live. You must have the legal right to live in Australia and meet that registry’s residency requirements. Most states require at least 12 months of residency, while NSW requires three consecutive years.
Once approved, you will receive either:
- a new or amended birth certificate; or
- a change-of-name certificate connecting your old and new names.
Do you need to return to your former name first?
No. You can move directly from your current married name to a completely new name.
Your application will ask for your birth name, current name, previous names and the new name you want to register. Once approved, you will receive a new birth certificate or legal change-of-name certificate, which becomes your proof of name change.
How does Easy Name Change help?
Changing to a completely new name has two stages:
- Apply to BDM and receive your new certificate.
- Update every organisation holding your old name.
Easy Name Change helps with both.
Where your registry uses a paper form, we can include it with your personalised kit. If you hate paperwork, need a little extra help or want advice from our name change concierge, choose the Certified Kit. We can check your application, prepare the certified copies and mail the completed paperwork on your behalf. The BDM application fee is separate and is not included in the kit price.
Once your name change is approved, we prepare and send you the forms, letters, emails and instructions for your nominated companies.
How much does a legal name change cost?
Application fees, identity requirements and processing times vary between states and territories. Some registries accept online applications, while others require certified documents or paper forms.
Easy Name Change provides the relevant BDM application and instructions for your circumstances, saving you from researching the process yourself.
Ready for a completely new name?
You do not have to return to your birth name or keep a surname that no longer feels right. Choose the name you want, then let Easy Name Change help with the paperwork.
