Changing your name after marriage in South Australia is a straightforward process, but it does require a few steps. You will need your official marriage certificate to start notifying various institutions about your new name.
In South Australia, you can take your spouse's surname without formal registration. The marriage certificate serves as evidence of your name change, which is accepted by most organisations.
| Registry | Consumer and Business Services (Births, Deaths and Marriages) |
|---|---|
| Marriage certificate fee | $72 for a standard marriage certificate (a $50 priority fee fast-tracks processing to 1 business day) |
| Driver licence update | Service SA — $20 replacement licence or permit fee when updating your name with Service SA |
| Legal basis | In Australia you can take your spouse's surname by marriage alone — no deed poll needed. Your official BDM marriage certificate is the evidence document. |
Step 1 — Get your official SA marriage certificate
The first step is to obtain your official marriage certificate from Consumer and Business Services (Births, Deaths and Marriages). This is different from the ceremonial certificate you may have received on your wedding day.
You can order the official marriage certificate by visiting the SA government website. The fee for a standard marriage certificate is $72, and if you need it faster, a $50 priority fee can expedite processing to one business day.
Every organisation you approach for a name change will ask for this official certificate as proof of your marriage.
Step 2 — Update your South Australia driver licence
Next, you will need to update your driver licence with Service SA. This is important as your driver licence will serve as your primary photo ID in your new name.
When updating your name, bring your official marriage certificate, a certified copy of your birth certificate, and two forms of identification.
The fee for a replacement licence or permit when updating your name is $20.
Step 3 — Notify everyone else
Once your marriage certificate and driver licence are updated, it's time to notify other organisations. This includes banks, superannuation funds, Medicare, the Australian Taxation Office, your passport provider, insurers, utilities, and subscription services.
Our Change Your Name service can simplify this process by providing a comprehensive checklist and guidance to ensure you notify everyone efficiently.
Having your name changed on official documents helps avoid confusion and ensures you can access services without issue.
What order should you do it in?
It’s recommended to follow this order when making notifications: start with your marriage certificate, then update your driver licence, followed by Medicare and the ATO, then your passport, and finally all other accounts.
Remember to have originals and certified copies ready, as some organisations may require these for processing. Also, if you have travel booked, keep your old passport valid until your new one is issued.
Sticking to this order will make the process much smoother and help you avoid any unnecessary delays.
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Get startedFrequently asked questions
Do I need to change my name legally after marriage in SA, or is the marriage certificate enough?
In South Australia, the marriage certificate is sufficient evidence of your name change. You do not need to register a formal name change if you are taking your spouse's surname.
How much does it cost to change your name after marriage in South Australia?
The cost for a standard marriage certificate is $72, and a $20 fee applies for updating your licence with Service SA.
How long does it take to get a marriage certificate from SA BDM (CBS)?
Processing times can vary, so it's best to order your marriage certificate early. Check the SA government website for the most current information.
Can I keep my maiden name for work and use my married name elsewhere?
Yes, you can choose to use your maiden name for work while using your married name in other contexts. Just be consistent with the name you use on official documents.
What if I married overseas but live in South Australia?
Overseas marriage certificates are often not accepted as name-change evidence by Australian organisations. You may need to register a change of name through SA BDM (CBS). It's advisable to confirm with each organisation before relying on your overseas certificate.