The process to change a name depends on whether:
- You’re an adult (over 18 years of age) or child
- You were born in Victoria or overseas
If you were born interstate, apply to the Registry in that state or territory (External link).
You can change your name only once in a 12-month period and 3 times in your lifetime.
Changing your name after marriage, separation or divorce
If you married in Australia, you don’t need to apply for a change of name. Just give the relevant organisations a copy of your Australian marriage certificate.
Read Changing your name after marriage, separation or divorce if you want to change your family name:
- To your spouse's
- Back to your own family name.
Changing a record of sex
If you want to change your name and record of sex at the same time, please apply from our ‘Change a record of sex’ pages.
Apply online
Please choose the page that matches your circumstances:
| Person whose name is being changed | Born in Victoria | Born overseas |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (over 18) | Change your name – adult born in Victoria | Change your name – adult born overseas |
| Child | Change your child’s name – child born in Victoria | Change your child’s name – child born overseas |
Deed poll
Deed polls are no longer used in Victoria for a change of name. Learn more about getting a copy of a deed poll certificate.