How to Change Your Name After Marriage in Australia
A complete, up-to-date guide covering every government agency, bank, and institution you need to notify — in the correct order.
Most people miss 5–8 updates — including superannuation, the ATO, and electoral roll. Missing these can cause tax, voting, and insurance problems later.
The Complete Name Change Checklist
Complete these steps in order. Each step must be done before the next for some institutions.
Obtain your Marriage Certificate
Register your marriage with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state. This is the foundational document — you need it before updating anything else.
Update your Australian Passport
Apply for a new passport using your marriage certificate as evidence. You can do this at a post office or Australia Post passport centre.
Update your Driver Licence
Visit your state road authority (e.g. Service NSW, VicRoads, DMV WA) with your marriage certificate and current licence.
Update Medicare
Visit a Medicare service centre or call Services Australia to update your name on your Medicare card.
Update your bank accounts
Visit your bank branch or update online with certified ID. Update all accounts — savings, credit cards, mortgages.
Update the Australian Electoral Roll
Update your name with the Australian Electoral Commission at aec.gov.au.
Update your Superannuation
Contact your super fund directly. You may need certified copies of your marriage certificate.
Update your Tax File Number (ATO)
Notify the ATO via myGov or by calling 13 28 61. Your TFN number stays the same — only your name on record changes.
Update Centrelink / Services Australia
If you receive government payments, update your details via myGov or at a Service Centre.
Update your employer & payroll
Notify HR with a certified copy of your marriage certificate for payroll, email, and employment records.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to change your name after marriage in Australia?
The full process typically takes 4–12 weeks depending on passport processing times and how many institutions you need to update. The marriage certificate alone can take 2–8 weeks after your wedding.
Do I need a deed poll in Australia?
No. In Australia, a marriage certificate is sufficient legal evidence of your new name after marriage. You do not need a deed poll.
Can I use my marriage certificate immediately?
You can start using your married name right away, but most government agencies and banks require the official marriage certificate (not just the commemorative one). Wait until you have the official certificate before visiting government offices.
What is the correct order to change my name in Australia?
Start with your marriage certificate, then update your passport (most valuable ID), then driver licence, then Medicare, then banks and financial accounts. Always update government photo ID before financial institutions.
How much does it cost to change your name after marriage in Australia?
The marriage certificate costs around $50–$60. A new passport is $422 (as of 1 Jan 2026). Your driver licence update is $30–$50. Most other updates (banks, ATO, Medicare) are free.