Change of Name After Marriage

Marriage does not automatically change your name in Australia.

After marriage, you can choose to:

• keep your current name
• take your spouse’s surname
• use a combined surname in a conventional form
• make no change at all

What document is usually needed

For many common surname updates, organisations ask for the official marriage certificate from NSW Births, Deaths and Marriages.

The ceremonial certificate from the day is often not enough on its own.

Important point

Different organisations have different rules, so always check with the organisation you are updating.

Helpful next steps

• Read the marriage certificate guide
• Check the NSW rules
• Get Married