Changing Your Name

You are able to change your name officially, should you wish to do so.

To change your name in Tasmania you must have either had your birth registered in Tasmania or have been a permanent resident in Tasmania for at least 12 months before you apply.  Only one name change is allowed in a 12 month period.

You can change your name by completing the ‘Application to Register – Change of Name’ form available from the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages website and paying a fee. If you are under 18, your parents will need to make the application.

You can also go to Service Tasmania for more information about how to officially change your name.

Just like if you change your address, if you change your name you will need to notify institutions like the Electoral Roll, your state government, banks, your doctor and your employer within 14 days.

Changing your name by usage

You can also unofficially change your name by usage (simply calling yourself your new name), however if you assume your new name and do not register it, you may run into problems if you need proof of your identity (for example, when you renew your passport, or apply to a bank).

Changing your name after marriage

If someone gets married and decides to take their partner’s surname, they will need to register this change of name with the Registry, though it is not compulsory to change your name after your marriage.