How to Change Your Name After Marriage in Australia?

By Brook Isobel – Marriage Celebrant servicing Sydney, Illawarra & Sutherland Shire

One of the most common questions I get asked as a celebrant is:“Now I’m married… how do I actually change my name?”

If you’ve just tied the knot and are ready to update your surname — or combine names in a way that feels right for you — here’s your step-by-step guide to legally changing your name after marriage in Australia.

How to change your name after marriage in Australia: the essentials

The good news? You don’t need to go through a full legal name change process with Births, Deaths & Marriages (BDM). If you’re taking your partner’s surname (or a hyphenated version), your marriage certificate is your key document.

But — and it’s a big one — you must have the official certificate issued by BDM, not the pretty commemorative one you sign on the day. I always guide my couples through applying for this after the ceremony.

📄 1. Apply for your official marriage certificate

If you were married in New South Wales, I’ll submit your paperwork to BDM after your ceremony. You can usually apply for your certificate online, and it takes 2–4 weeks to arrive.🔗 Apply via NSW Births, Deaths & Marriages

💳 2. Update your name on ID and records

Once your certificate arrives, start updating your name with:

• Driver’s licence (Service NSW)

• Passport (via Australia Post or online)

• Medicare

• Banks and credit cards

• Super funds, utilities, insurance, payroll, and more

Each organisation will have its own process — most require the original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

✈️ 3. Travelling soon? Update your passport first

Planning a honeymoon or post-wedding trip? Make sure you travel under the name on your current passport, or wait to book flights until your name change is official. Airlines can be strict — and a mismatched name might stop you from boarding.

💬 4. Do I have to change my name after marriage?

Absolutely not. In Australia, it’s totally your choice. You can:

• Take your partner’s surname

• Keep your own surname

• Hyphenate or create a double surname

• Blend names or choose something new (though that may require a legal name change)

It’s your marriage, your name, and your decision.

💖 Want help making the paperwork painless?

As your celebrant, I walk you through the entire legal process — including what’s needed for name changes, applying for your certificate, and what to expect after your wedding day. One less thing to Google when you're deep in the post-wedding glow.

Ready to plan a ceremony that’s legal and personal?

I’m Brook Isobel — a warm, modern celebrant working with couples across Sydney, the Illawarra and the Sutherland Shire. From the vows to the legals to the name-change know-how, I make your ceremony as smooth as it is special.

CONTACT ME HERE