Changing your name back after a divorce in New South Wales involves a few key steps. Understanding what documents you need and where to go is essential for a smooth process.
This guide will help you navigate the name change process, whether you're reverting to your maiden name or making a new name entirely.
| Registry | NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages |
|---|---|
| Usual evidence | Birth certificate + marriage certificate + divorce order — reverting to a birth name generally needs no formal name-change registration |
| Driver licence update | Service NSW (Transport for NSW) — Free — Transport for NSW charges no fee for a replacement licence when your personal details change |
| If reverting to a non-birth name | A registered change of name with NSW BDM may be required — $203 standard or $233 priority to register an adult change of name, plus $70 for the certificate ordered at registration |
What documents you need in NSW
In NSW, to revert to your maiden name or any other name, you'll need specific documents. Generally, you'll need your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce order.
If you are reverting to a name that isn't your birth name, you will need to register a change of name. This involves a more formal process compared to simply using your birth name or maiden name.
It's important to have these documents ready when you apply through the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages.
Updating your New South Wales driver licence
To update your driver licence in New South Wales, you will go through Service NSW. This process is free of charge when your personal details change.
You will need to provide evidence of your name change, which can include your marriage certificate or divorce order, along with identification.
Visit a Service NSW centre or check their website to find out more about the process and what documents to bring.
Notifying banks, super, Medicare and the rest
After you've changed your name, it's important to notify various institutions. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, utilities, and any memberships or loyalty programs you might have.
To make this process easier, consider using the services of Change Your Name, which can help guide you through the notifications.
Closing this chapter of your life shouldn't involve endless hold music. Make a list of the organisations you need to contact and start notifying them of your name change.
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Get startedFrequently asked questions
Do I have to change my name back after divorce, or can I keep my married name?
You are not required to change your name back after a divorce. You can choose to keep your married name if you prefer.
Do I need my ex-partner's permission to revert to my former name in NSW?
No, you do not need your ex-partner's permission to change your name back to your former name in New South Wales.
What if I don't have my original birth certificate?
If you don't have your original birth certificate, you may need to apply for a replacement through the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages.
I want to move to a completely new surname after my divorce — what's involved in New South Wales?
To change to a completely new surname, you will need to register a change of name with the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages. There is a fee of $203 for a standard application.