How to register an adult's change of name

If you are an adult (18 years and over) you may apply for a change of name if:

you were born in Western Australia
your birth was registered in Western Australia
you are a permanent resident of Australia and are domiciled or ordinarily reside in Western Australia
you are an Australian citizen and are domiciled or ordinarily reside in Western Australia.

Documentation

A birth certificate for adults born in Western Australia is not necessary. If you were born interstate, a birth certificate is required.
If you were born overseas, your birth certificate or current passport is required. If you now have Australian citizenship, your citizenship certificate is required.
If born outside Western Australia, proof of residence must be provided.
For women married outside Western Australia, your marriage certificate/s is required.
Proof of any previously registered name change must be provided.
Photocopies of original documents will only be accepted if they are certified as a 'true and correct copy' by a Justice of the Peace or a solicitor.
Overseas documents must be translated into English by an accredited translator.

Important

Refer to instructions on Page 1 of the application before completing the form.
Print clearly. Symbols and abbreviations must not be used.
Initial all alterations and do not use correction fluid otherwise the form will not be accepted.
Original documents must be shown if your application for change of name is lodged in person. If your application is lodged by post, photocopies of original documents are acceptable. Any photocopies must be certified as a 'true and correct copy' by a Justice of the Peace or a solicitor. Overseas documents must be translated into English by an accredited translator.
Faxed application forms will not be accepted.

How the change of name is registered

If your application is approved, you will receive a change of name certificate which authorises the use of your new name.

If you were born in Western Australia, your original name will remain on your birth certificate and your new name will also appear on the certificate as a notation. An amended birth certificate can be obtained on payment of an additional fee.

If you were born interstate, the Registry will notify the birth state of the name change.

Name changes may be notified to other organisations such as the police department, passport office, Department of Immigration & Multicultural & Indigenous Affairs etc.

Last Updated: 9-Mar-2009

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BDM400 - Application to Register Change of Name

BDM400 - Application to Register Change of Name

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