I’ve Just Been Married and I’m Changing My Name: What Do I Need to Do, and How Could It Affect My Employer?

Getting married is an exciting milestone, and if you’re changing your name after tying the knot, there are a few important steps you need to follow. While it’s a personal decision, changing your name does have practical and legal implications, especially when it comes to your job.

Here’s a guide on what to do and how your name change might affect your employer.

Step 1: Get Your Official Marriage Certificate

After your wedding, you’ll need the official marriage certificate issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state or territory - not just the ceremonial one you signed on your wedding day.

This legal certificate is required to start updating your identity documents.

Step 2: Change Your Name on Key Identity Documents

Before notifying your employer or workplace, update your name on the following:

• Driver’s licence

• Passport

• Medicare card

• Tax file number (TFN) via the Australian Taxation Office

• Bank accounts and credit cards

• Superannuation funds

These documents serve as official proof of your identity and will be needed when updating your name with your employer.

Step 3: Notify Your Employer

Once your name is legally changed on identity documents, you’ll need to inform your employer’s HR or payroll department. Most employers will require:

• A copy of your official marriage certificate

• Updated identification (e.g. driver’s licence or passport)

• A completed name change form, if applicable internally

How It Affects Your Employer

Your name change affects several systems and processes within the workplace:

1. Payroll and Tax

Your employer must update your name in their payroll system to ensure that your income is reported correctly to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). If your name and TFN don’t match, it can create problems with tax reporting and superannuation contributions.

2. Superannuation

Employers typically report superannuation payments using the name linked to your TFN. Failing to update your name could cause delays or discrepancies with your super fund.

3. Email, Staff Directories and Security Access

Internal systems like email addresses, digital signatures, ID badges, or security clearance may also need to be updated to reflect your new name.

4. Contracts and Legal Documents

If your role involves contracts, compliance, or legal documentation, your employer may need to ensure those documents reflect your correct name going forward.

Optional: Updating Your Work Email and Branding

If your professional identity is closely tied to your name — such as in client-facing roles, sales, or public communications — talk to your employer about updating:

• Email addresses

• Business cards

• Company website or LinkedIn bio

• Professional social accounts or branding materials

Some people choose to hyphenate or keep their maiden name professionally if it’s well established in their industry. This is completely valid and up to you.

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Key Takeaways

• Changing your name after marriage is your choice — and there’s no legal requirement to do so.

• Once you do, update your key ID documents before notifying your employer.

• Your employer will need to update payroll, tax records, internal systems and possibly branding.

• Communication is key — reach out to HR with the required documentation so everything transitions smoothly.

Helpful Resources

• Australian Taxation Office – Update your details

• Services Australia – Changing your name

• Your state or territory’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages