If you're considering a legal name change in the Australian Capital Territory, it's essential to understand the process and requirements involved. In the ACT, the modern method of changing your name is through registration with Access Canberra (Births, Deaths and Marriages), rather than the traditional deed poll.
This guide will help you navigate the steps to legally change your name, including who can apply, what to expect after your name change is registered, and how to update your details with various organisations.
| Apply through | Access Canberra (Births, Deaths and Marriages) |
|---|---|
| Application fee | $152 application fee to register an adult change of name |
| Processing time | Access Canberra processes applications within 15 business days of receiving all required documents, not counting postal delivery |
| Eligibility | Applications are generally made where your birth is registered; people born in the ACT apply with 3 forms of ID including their birth certificate, and people born elsewhere can apply to Access Canberra in certain circumstances or to their birth state's registry |
How a registered change of name works in ACT
The process for a registered change of name in the ACT involves submitting an application to Access Canberra. While many still refer to the process as a deed poll, the current terminology focuses on registration.
To apply, you need to provide three forms of identification, including your birth certificate if you were born in the ACT. If you were born elsewhere, you can still apply to Access Canberra under certain circumstances.
Once your application is processed, usually within 15 business days, you will receive a change-of-name certificate which reflects your new name.
Who can apply in Australian Capital Territory
In the ACT, you can apply for a name change if you were born there and can provide the required forms of ID. If you were born outside of the ACT, confirm whether you can apply to Access Canberra or need to contact your birth state's registry.
Adults can apply independently, while children will need parental consent to initiate the process.
There are also restrictions on certain prohibited names, so it's essential to check that your desired name complies with these rules.
After it's registered: updating everything
Once your name change is registered, the work isn’t finished. You'll need to update your details with various organisations including your driver's licence, passport, Medicare, the Australian Taxation Office, banks, and superannuation funds.
Each of these institutions will require your new change-of-name certificate as evidence of your name change.
For assistance with notifying these organisations, Change Your Name can help streamline the process for you.
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Get startedFrequently asked questions
Is a deed poll still a thing in ACT?
In the ACT, the process has shifted from using a deed poll to a registered change of name with Access Canberra. While the term deed poll may still be used informally, the official procedure is now registration.
How much does a legal name change cost in Australian Capital Territory?
The application fee to register an adult change of name in the ACT is $152.
How many times can you change your name in ACT?
Most registries have limitations on the frequency of name changes. It's advisable to check with Access Canberra for specific rules regarding this.
Will a name change in Australian Capital Territory be recognised in other states and overseas?
Generally, a legal name change in the ACT is recognised in other Australian states and territories, as well as overseas. However, it’s best to verify with the specific institutions in those areas to ensure compliance.