Other methods to change a child's name

Parents may wish to change their child's name for a variety of reasons such as:

1. Natural father's details to be added to child's birth registration
   If your child was born in Western Australia, you have not married but would like to add the natural father's details to your child's birth registration, please see Adding father's details. A fee is required for this service. If your child was born interstate, please contact the Registry Office in the state or territory your child was born.
   
   
2. Natural parents marry after child's birth registered
   If the child was born in Western Australia and the natural parents have married after the child’s birth was registered, marriage details and natural father’s details can be added. Visit adding marriage details. A fee is payable for this service. If your child was born interstate, please contact the Registry Office in the state or territory your child was born.
   
   
3. Change child's given names within 12 months of birth
   Children under 12 months of age born in Western Australia can have their given name(s) changed by completing a BDM105 form (see download below). A fee is payable for this service. Only one change of this kind can be made within 12 months of the child's date of birth. If your child was born outside Western Australia, you must apply to the Registry for a change of name. A fee is payable for this service.
   
   
4. Change child's given names after 12 months of birth
   Irrespective of where your child was born, if they are over 12 months old and you would like to change their given name(s), you must apply to the Registry for a change of name. A fee is payable for this service. Refer to How to register a child's change of name.
   
   
5. Same sex parent's details to be added to child's birth registration
   If you are in a same sex relationship and you would like to add your partner's name to your child's birth registration, visit adding same sex parent's details. 
   
   
6. Change child's surname
   Irrespective of where your child was born or their age, if you want to change their surname you must apply to the Registry for a change of name. A fee is payable for this service. Refer to how to register a child's change of name.

Last Updated: 9-Mar-2009