Changing your name

You can change or assume a new name by consistently using the new name. You are free to call yourself what you like, so long as the purpose is not fraud.

Although you do not need to formalise a change of name to make it legal, many government departments, such as Centrelink and the Passport Office, require written proof of the change. Most banks and financial institutions also require proof.

Formal Change of Name: how to go about it:

• Obtain an application for registration of a change of name from the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages at 589 Collins Street, Melbourne; tel: 1300 369 367, and
• Fill out the form and lodge it at the Registry. You will have to pay $40 and provide documents of identification when you do this.(The fee changes each year, so it is worth checking with the Registry before you make the payment).
• A change of name may generally be registered only once in any 12-month period. In exceptional circumstances