Australian Deed Poll

What is a deed poll? It's a document that legally changes your name. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Australian deed polls, and the name changing process. If you're thinking of changing your name in Australia, read on!

What is an Australian Deed Poll?

A deed poll is a legal document that changes your name. Australian deed polls are different to those in other countries.

Deed polls were used in Australia until 1986. At that time, the Australian government introduced legislation which made it easier to change your name without having to go through a deed poll.

Today, Australia uses the name changing registration process set out in the Australian Passports Act 2005. This process is much simpler than using a deed poll, and doesn't require you to go before a court or make any publication of your change of name.

To Get a Copy of Your Deed Poll Certificate

If you changed your name before 1986, and would like a copy of your deed poll certificate, you can contact the National Archives of Australia.

Follow the steps in this link- https://www.bdm.vic.gov.au/contact-us-1

The copy of your deed poll will be on BDM certified paper and will include the signatures of the witnesses who signed your deed poll.

How to Change your Name in Australia

Apply to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in the state or territory where you live.

If you were born abroad , you must be an Australian citizen before you can apply to change your name.

Forms

You will need the correct forms to change a name

Adult should fill out the following form: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/forms-registry-of-births-deaths-and-marriages#change-of-name

Children should fill out the following form: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/forms-registry-of-births-deaths-and-marriages#change-of-name

If you are changing a name within 12 months of the child's birth, the following is the appropriate form: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/forms-registry-of-births-deaths-and-marriages#change-of-name

Necessary Identification

You are required to bring 3 forms of identification to the Registry. These can be in the form of:

- Australian passport

- Australian birth certificate

- Australian driver's license

- Australian Medicare card

-Utility bill

-Vehicle registration

For the full list check here.

How Much Does the Name Changing Registration Process Cost?

These are the fees you can expect to pay when you change your name in Australia.

• $185 Register a Change of Name (certificate not included)
• $53 Change a child’s name within 12 months of birth (includes replacement birth certificate)
• $53 Previously registered Change of Name Certificate (1957 onwards)
• $35 Priority Service (certificate applications only & not payable when applying in person)