Just Married? Here’s How to Tackle Your Name Change Like a Pro

Shaun Koster
Sep 4
3 min read

As marriage celebrant based in Victoria, I get asked this question all the time: “How do we actually change our name after the wedding?”

The good news, it is simpler than it sounds. Whether it is the bride, the groom or both of you deciding to update your surname, this guide walks you through the steps in a way that is easy to follow and a little enjoyable.

✅ Step 1: Get the Right Certificate

If you are married in Australia, you do not need a separate legal name change. All you need is your official marriage certificate from Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM).

👉 Important, the decorative certificate from your wedding day is for keepsakes. Organisations will only accept the official BDM-issued certificate.

💡 Bonus tip, when I register your marriage, I can also order your official certificate for you for a small additional fee. One less thing to worry about while you are settling into married life.

✅ Step 2: Get Certified Copies

Most places will not accept your original certificate. They will ask for certified copies.

You do not have to hunt down a Justice of the Peace anymore. You can get copies certified at:

AusPost- Usually the Manager
Your bank (ask for someone with 5 or more years’ experience)
Your celebrant (that includes me)
Pharmacist

Check the full list here: Victorian Department of Justice — Certified Copies

💡 Pro tip, get a few certified copies at once. Keep your original safe and use the copies for all the paperwork.

✅ Step 3: Start with Photo ID, VicRoads and Passport

Here is a practical tip- update your Passport and VicRoads licence first.

Having your photo ID match your new name makes everything else much easier, from banks to Medicare to your local gym. Starting with these key documents is the smoothest way to tackle the name change process.

💡 Pro Tip- If your passport has 2+ years left, you can get a new one with your updated name for FREE. The expiry stays the same, just with a shiny new name!

✅ Step 4: Update Other Organisations

Once your key photo ID is updated, move on to other organisations:

Medicare and Centrelink
Banks and superannuation
ATO and taxation records
Electoral enrolment
Insurance policies
Utility accounts, gas, water, internet, Netflix and other essentials
Working With Children Check or other ID cards

Each place has its own process, so it is worth checking requirements before heading in.

✨ Quick Checklist for Newlyweds

Ask your celebrant to order your official marriage certificate when registering your marriage
Get a few certified copies
Update VicRoads licence
Update passport
Work through your bank, Medicare, utilities and everything else

🎉 Tip: Start with the Big Stuff

When it comes to changing your name after marriage, tackle the “big stuff” first, your passport and drivers licence. Once those are sorted, updating everything else like banks, Medicare, and utilities feels way easier. Think of it as your first little adventure as a newlywed team — and yes, even paperwork can feel a bit satisfying!

🙋 FAQ – Changing Your Name After Marriage in Victoria

Do I have to change my name after marriage? No. Some people keep their existing name, some take a partner’s surname, and others choose to hyphenate or combine names. It is entirely up to you.

Can the groom change his name too? Absolutely. Either partner can change their surname after marriage, or both. The process works the same way for anyone.

When should I update my documents? As soon as you have your official marriage certificate. Most people start with their passport and VicRoads licence, then move on to banks and other organisations.

What if I lose my marriage certificate? No worries. You can order a replacement from Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria at any time.

Is this different from a legal name change? Yes. Taking your partner’s surname after marriage does not require a separate legal name change. Your official marriage certificate is all you need.