How do you go about officially changing your first name? Is it expensive or hard to do at all? Thanks. (-:?

I'm in Australia, if that helps Guys...

How do you go about officially changing your first name? Is it expensive or hard to do at all? Thanks. (-:?
sorry i wouldnt know how,,, i hate my name, [laura] and wouldv loved to changed it, but i finally adapted to it, lol xxxxxxxxxxx


if your name is grace in real life,,,, i love that name!!!!!!! i was gonna name my 1st daughter that, xxxxxxx
Reply:If you are using, or wish to use, a name other than your registered name, there is no legal requirement that you formally change your name. It is, however, recommended that you change your name officially, both for identification and as evidence of your name change.


You are not legally required to change your family name (surname). If you want to you can:





a) use your spouse's family name upon marriage,


b) combine family names with your spouse,


c) return to your family name at birth or after adoption after getting divorced or separated,


d) use a former married name,


e) return to a previous legal name that has been formally registered.





You do not need to register a formal change of name if the change falls within one of the above categories. Your marriage certificate is sufficient proof of your change of name and there may be times when you will also need to produce your birth certificate as proof.





Married couples and their children under 18 years of age may apply on one form.





Your marriage record will only show your name at the time of marriage. It will not record your name after marriage