To organise a Change of Name interview, phone 1300 655 236 for an appointment. Alternatively, the Registry accepts
applications by mail.
From 01-Apr-96 the Registry assumed the administrative responsibility
for registering all changes of name in NSW. All
changes of name are registered in accordance with provisions
contained in Part 5 of the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration
Act 1995.
The Land Titles Office no longer registers Deeds Poll or
Instruments Evidencing Change of Name.
A person is legally able to change his or her name. If a
person alters their name or uses an additional or other name
with the intention to act fraudulently or with an intention
to deceive or in any other way which contravenes the law,
they may be subject to criminal proceedings.
A person may use a new name without any formal steps. At
common law, a person will not actually change his or her name
until the person has used and become known by the new name.
Under the Registry's legislation the name is changed once
it is registered.
Occasions arise where a person will be asked to provide proof
of change of name (for example as proof of identity or to
obtain a passport). For these reasons a person may record
their new name or alteration of their name by registering
a Change of Name at the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.
Please note — if you were married in Australia a formal Change of Name is not required if you wish to take your spouse's name. A Standard Marriage Certificate is usually sufficient evidence to have personal documentation, such as your driver's licence and passport, changed to your married surname.
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