How to Change Your Name After Marriage: A Step-by-Step Guide (WA Edition)

Thinking about changing your name after marriage? You’re not alone! While it’s entirely optional, many people choose to take their partner’s surname, double-barrel their names, or even create a brand-new name together.

Here’s your no-stress guide to navigating the process in Western Australia.

Step by Step Guide to Changing Your Name After Marriage

Step 1: Decide on the Name Change Option That’s Right for You

Before diving into the paperwork, take a moment to decide what name feels right for you. Here are the most common options:

• Keep your current name – Nothing needs to be done. Easy peasy!

• Take your partner’s surname – A traditional option using your marriage certificate.

• Double-barrel both surnames – With or without a hyphen, e.g. Green-Smith or Green Smith.

• Create a new surname together – Think Greensmith or Smitheen. (This option requires an official name change.)

• 
  

Step 2: Understand the Two Types of Name Changes

There are two main ways to change your name after marriage:

✅ Changing your name by custom

• This applies when you take your partner’s surname or choose to double-barrel.

• No need for an official name change (formerly called changing your name by deed poll) – your official registered marriage certificate is your golden ticket.

📝 Changing your name officially

• If you're creating an entirely new surname, you’ll need to apply for an official change of name through the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

• 
  

Step 3: Know Your Marriage Certificates

After your wedding, you’ll have three different certificates – but only one will help with your name change.

Here’s what they are:

1. Official Marriage Certificate – Kept by your celebrant.

2. Marriage Certificate with Declaration – Sent by your celebrant to the Registry.

3. Presentation Certificate (Form 15) – The pretty one you get on the day. Not valid for name changes.

❗ None of these certificates can be used to update your name with official agencies. You’ll need to apply separately for the registered version.

Step 4: Apply for Your Registered Marriage Certificate

You can apply for your official certificate about 14 days after your wedding – this gives the Registry time to process your marriage.

To apply:

• Visit the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA website

• Apply online for your Registered Marriage Certificate

• 
  

Step 5: Start Updating Your Name

Once you receive your registered certificate, you can use it to update your name with:

• Banks and financial institutions

• Medicare and Centrelink

• Department of Transport (driver’s licence)

• Passport and immigration documents

• Utility companies, super funds, your employer, and more

Final Tip

Changing your name can take time and patience—each organisation has different requirements. But once that certificate’s in your hands, you’re good to go!