Changing Your Name After Marriage

I know how confusing and overwhelming changing your name after marriage can feel. Forms, documents, and deadlines—it’s easy to feel completely lost. That’s why I’ve created this Name Change Kit: to guide you step by step, simplify the process, and make it stress-free, so you can focus on the joy of your new chapter instead of paperwork.

After Marriage Name Change Kit

How exciting!! Now that the confetti has settled and you’re officially hitched, this little guide is here to help you with one of your very first just‑married tasks — updating your name (if you choose to!).

This fun, fuss‑free kit will walk you through:

  • How to apply for your official Queensland marriage certificate (the important one!)

  • Where and how to update your name across all the places that matter

  • Typical fees and timeframes, so there are no surprises

  • Handy, celebrant‑approved tips to make the whole process smooth and stress‑free

Pop the kettle on, take it one step at a time, and enjoy ticking off your first married‑life admin together

Step 1: Your Official Marriage Certificate

After your wedding, you’ll need an official marriage certificate for things like changing your name or updating your ID. The good news? It’s simpler than it sounds, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Once your marriage has been registered, you’ll usually receive a secure link to purchase your certificate directly from Queensland Births, Deaths and Marriages. Most couples find this quick and easy — just a few clicks, and your certificate is on its way to you.

A quick note on certificate types

  • Official marriage certificate — your legal proof of marriage, required for name changes and official documents.

  • Commemorative marriage certificate — a keepsake version that comes with the official certificate.

  • Ceremonial marriage certificate — the one you sign on your wedding day. It’s symbolic only and not legal.

If you were married outside Queensland, you’ll need to apply through the relevant interstate or overseas registry.

How long it takes

  • Standard applications: approx. 10 business days

  • Urgent applications: approx. 2 business days (additional fee applies)

Allow extra time for postage, especially during busy periods.

Fees

The official marriage certificate is purchased separately from your ceremony. The fee covers the certificate, processing, and postage.

Step 4: Update Your Personal & Financial Records

Now that your key IDs are updated, it’s time to make sure your new name is reflected everywhere else — this keeps life simple and official.

Banks & Financial Stuff

  • Update your savings accounts, credit cards, loans, and superannuation

  • Bring your marriage certificate and photo ID if needed

Employer & Payroll

  • Update your payroll and superannuation details

  • Update email signature and work systems to your new name

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

  • Update your name through myGov

Utilities & Services

  • Electricity, gas, water, phone, internet

  • Insurance policies (health, home, car)

  • Council rates and local services

Step 5: Lifestyle & Professional Updates

These aren’t legally required, but it’s lovely to get them sorted so your new name feels everywhere:

  • Professional registrations or licences

  • Education providers (universities, TAFE, training courses)

  • Gym memberships, social clubs, loyalty programs

  • Social media profiles

Step 6: Celebrate!

Yay! You’ve done it — your new name is officially recognised across all the important places. Take a deep breath, have a little happy dance, and enjoy these first moments as a married couple.

Your paperwork is done, your name is updated, and now it’s time to focus on the fun stuff: life together as newlyweds!

Step 2: Decide How You’ll Use Your New Name

Once your official marriage certificate is safely in your hands, it’s time to decide how you want to use your new name. Remember, in Queensland (and across Australia), getting married does not automatically change your name.

After marriage, you may:

  • Take your partner’s surname

  • Keep your birth surname

  • Hyphenate surnames

  • Use a combination socially or professionally

To officially use your married name, you’ll need to update your records with each organisation using your marriage certificate as proof.

Step 3: Update Your Name - Priority Order

Start with your key identity documents first, then move on to everything else.

Australian Passport (if applicable)

  • Apply for a passport name change

  • Requires your original marriage certificate

Driver Licence (QLD Transport and Main Roads)

  • Update at a TMR service centre

  • Bring your marriage certificate + photo ID

Medicare

  • Update online via Medicare/Services Australia

  • Upload your marriage certificate

Australian Electoral Roll

  • Update online through the AEC