How to change a child’s name legally in South Australia

Changing a child's name in South AustraliaSouth Australian law requires certain steps to be completed before changing the legal first or last name of a child under the age of 18.

Children’s names cannot be changed unless the child consents, but if the child is too young to consent, then a new name can still be registered so long as a registered person (Justice of the Peace, solicitor or police officer) believes the child to be too young to understand the implications.

You can change your child’s name in South Australia if:

  • Your child’s birth is registered in South Australia
  • Born overseas and an Australian Citizen or permanent resident of Australia who has resided in SA for at least 12 consecutive months
  • You have parental consent by both parents
  • The name hasn’t been changed in the last 12 months
  • You can only change your name three times in a lifetime

The application process

  • Download and print the form from Births, Deaths and Marriages
  • Identification documents must be witnessed – child and parents – showing current address and signature
  • Applications can be lodged in person (with an appointment) or posted
  • A fee must be paid
  • Your application will take about four or five weeks to process

Write your own story. Call Vanessa Ash and Associates today.

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