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Note a change of name in a birth or adoption register

Part of the Name changes topic

You can note a change of name registered in another state on a Queensland birth or adoption register. Apply to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriage and pay a fee.

In short

You can use this service if:

  • you were born or adopted in Queensland
  • you changed your name in another state.

You must submit your completed application form, ID and supporting documents (if needed) in person or by post.

Download the PDF form

What you should know

You must follow the rules for changing your name to have your application approved.

For an extra fee you can order an updated birth certificate at the same time.

You can choose whether the certificate is printed with or without sex shown.

If you order an updated birth certificate with this application, or in the future, it will show the name registered at birth as well as the new name.

Who can use this service

You can apply for a note a change of name if:
Correct. you were born or adopted in Queensland
Correct.you can show evidence of your change of name in another state or by way of legal process
Correct. have not chosen a prohibited name.
Don’t use this service if:
Incorrect. you were born in another Australian state or territory
Instead, apply in that state or territory.
Incorrect. you want to change your name following a relationship change
Instead, read changing your name after marriage, separation or divorce.

How to apply to note a change of name in a birth or adoption record

Choose how to submit and follow the steps.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to gather 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

You may need to provide documents to support your application.

See Supporting documents for other Registry services.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Certify copies of your documents

You must get copies of your ID documents and supporting documents certified by an authorised person.

See Getting documents certified.

Step 3: Choose the application form

PDF form – note a change of name

Print and complete the form by hand. Include payment method on the form.

Download the PDF form

PDF form - birth certificate

To order an updated birth certificate at the same time, download and print the form and fill in by hand. Include the payment method on the form.

Download the PDF form

Step 4: Get a witness signature

An adult (18 or older) must witness your signature on the declaration section of the form.

Step 5: Submit your application

Post to

Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages
PO Box 15188
CITY EAST  QLD  4002

Include your:

  • completed application form
  • payment method on the PDF form
  • certified copies of ID and supporting documents.

Step 6: Get confirmation the record has been updated

Once the application has been approved, the record will be updated. If you ordered a certificate it will be posted to you.

Your application may not be approved if:

  • you don’t meet the rules
  • have not included the right documents.

You will not receive a refund if:

  • your application is refused
  • you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to gather 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

You may need to provide documents to support your application.

See Supporting documents for other Registry services.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Choose the application form

PDF form – note a change of name

Print and complete the form by hand. Include payment method on the form.

Download the PDF form

PDF form – birth certificate

To order an updated birth certificate at the same time, download and print the form and fill in by hand. Include the payment method on the form.

Download the PDF form

Step 3: Get a witness signature

An adult (18 or older) must witness your signature on the declaration section of the form.

Step 4: Submit your application

Submit your application in person at:

Brisbane registry customer service centre
Level 32, 180 Ann Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am–4.30pm.

Closed public holidays.

Bring with you:

  • completed application form
  • payment method on the PDF form
  • original ID and supporting documents.

Step 5: Get confirmation the record has been updated

Once the application has been approved, the record will be updated. If you ordered a certificate it will be posted to you.

Your application may not be approved if:

  • you don’t meet the rules
  • have not included the right documents.

You will not receive a refund if:

  • your application is refused
  • you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.

How long it takes

Processing times start when we receive an application with all required documents and payment.

Standard application: up to 10 business days

Urgent application: not applicable

Applications missing any required information or documents will take longer.

Allow extra time for public holidays and postage.

How much it costs

The fee you pay is for you to submit your application and for the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages to review it.

  • Note a change of name in a birth or adoption register: $43.90
  • Updated official birth certificate (with or without sex shown): $56.20

Regular postage is free.

You can choose other delivery types:

  • Registered post (recommended): $8.10
  • Express post: $8.55
  • International registered mail: $18.55

From the Help centre

Find answers to frequently asked questions about services, including:

Certificates lost in the post

Damaged certificates

Payments, refunds and financial hardship

Find more in the Help centre

Managed by: Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages