A change of name certificate is usually needed when you want to prove your identity for things like passports and claiming government benefits after you've registered a change of name.
If you were married in Australia and want to take your partner's surname, you should apply for a marriage certificate to use as evidence of your new surname.
The fee for a standard certificate is $67.50
What you'll need
You'll need to provide one of these combinations of documents:
- TWO documents from list 1
- ONE document from list 1 and ONE document from either list 2 or 3
- ONE document from list 2 and TWO documents from list 3
- THREE documents from list 3.
At least one document must show your name and address and one document must show your signature.
All identification documents must be current (not expired). Where a document from list 3 is provided as evidence of your address, it must have been issued within the last three months.
You can upload scanned or photographed images of your ID documents.
If you're applying online, you must include a document from list 1, or your medicare card, to be verified by the online Document Verification Service (DVS). If you live overseas, you can use your overseas driver’s licence or passport.
| List 1 | List 2 | List 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Australian passport | Government employee photo ID card | Bank statement |
| Australian driver’s licence | Overseas driver’s licence | Council rates notice |
| Centrelink concession card | Tertiary student ID card | Utility account statement (electricity, gas, water) |
| Overseas passport | Proof of age card | |
| Aviation/maritime security ID card | Tenancy or lease agreement | |
| Medicare card | Motor vehicle registration papers | |
| Australian firearms licence | Telephone or mobile account | |
| Security guard or crowd control licence | ATO notice of assessment | |
| Mortgage documents | ||
| Australian Electoral Commission enrollment | ||
| Seniors card | ||
| Superannuation fund statement | ||
| Certified academic university transcript | ||
| Credit or debit card |
Estimated processing times
Check estimated processing times on the Consumer and Business Services (CBS) website to work out how long it will take to get your certificate.
Fast track option
Your application can be fast-tracked by paying a priority fee of $47.00
Priority service processing times for online or posted applications - processed within 1 business day.
Processing time doesn't include delivery by Australia Post. Visit www.auspost.com.au for delivery information.
Other ways to apply
1. Fill out the form
Complete and sign the form - Apply for a change of name certificate (184.9 KB PDF).
2. Lodge your application
Post the form, supporting documents and payment to:
Births, Deaths and Marriages
Consumer and Business Services
GPO Box 1351
Adelaide SA 5001
Contact Births, Deaths and Marriages
Phone: 131 882
International: +61 8 8204 8532
Post:
GPO Box 1351
Adelaide SA 5001
