If you're considering changing your name back after a divorce in Western Australia, you're not alone. Many people choose to revert to their maiden name or a name that reflects their new chapter in life.
Understanding the process and requirements can help make the transition smoother. This guide provides essential information on the steps you need to take, including necessary documentation and notifications.
| Registry | Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (WA) |
|---|---|
| Usual evidence | Birth certificate + marriage certificate + divorce order — reverting to a birth name generally needs no formal name-change registration |
| Driver licence update | Department of Transport (WA) — No fee to process the name change itself, but a $33.30 replacement licence card fee applies |
| If reverting to a non-birth name | A registered change of name with WA BDM may be required — $206 lodgement fee for an adult change of name application, retained regardless of the outcome |
What documents you need in WA
In Western Australia, you'll need specific documents to support your name change application. Typically, this includes your birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce order. If you are reverting to a name that isn't your birth name, a registered change of name may be required.
- Birth Certificate
- Marriage Certificate
- Divorce Order
Make sure these documents are official copies. If you have any questions about what is needed, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (WA) can provide guidance.
Updating your Western Australia driver licence
To update your driver licence in Western Australia, you'll need to process your name change through the Department of Transport (WA). This can typically be done in person or online.
Bring along the documents mentioned earlier, as they will be required to verify your name change. Note that there is no fee to process the name change itself, but there is a $33.30 fee for a replacement licence card.
Notifying banks, super, Medicare and the rest
After changing your name, it’s important to notify various institutions to ensure your records are updated. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, utilities, and any memberships or loyalty programs you may have.
To make this process easier, consider creating a checklist of all the places you need to notify. Remember, closing a chapter shouldn't take months of hold music.
For assistance with the name change process, including notifications, you can explore the services offered by Change Your Name.
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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?
In Western Australia, you are not required to change your name back after 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 WA?
No, you do not need your ex-partner's permission to change your name back to your former name in Western Australia.
What if I don't have my original birth certificate?
If you don't have your original birth certificate, you may need to obtain a replacement. The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages can assist you with this process.
I want to move to a completely new surname after my divorce — what's involved in Western Australia?
To change to a completely new surname in Western Australia, you'll need to submit a name change application to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, which involves a lodgement fee of $206. Be sure to check the official guidelines for more details on the application process.