Understanding the Previous Change of Name Certificate Application in

Understanding the Previous Change of Name Certificate Application in Western Australia

If you have legally changed your name in Western Australia and need to obtain an official certificate confirming this change, the Previous Change of Name Certificate Application form (BDM450) is the official document to use. This process is essential for individuals who require proof of their previous registered name for legal, personal, or administrative reasons.

When to Use This Form

This application is specifically designed for requesting a replacement certificate for a name change that has already been registered with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA. It is important to note that this form should not be used if your name change resulted from marriage; in that case, a different form, the Marriage Certificate Application (BDM3), must be completed.

Additionally, if your change of name was registered before 31 January 1957, applications should be directed to Landgate instead of the registry. The form is primarily intended for recent name changes and provides official proof of the previous registered name, which can be valuable for legal or administrative processes.

Key Information Required for the Application

The form requests specific details to identify the individual and the change of name:

• Current name and previous registered name: including surname and given names.
• Date of the name change.
• Registration number (if known).
• Applicant details: full name, postal address, contact number, and email.
• Relationship to the person named on the certificate: self, parent, legal guardian, etc.
• Reason for the certificate: legal, passport, family history, or other.

Applicants must also provide evidence of their identity if the application involves a result of marriage search or other verification processes. This includes submitting certified copies or original identification documents, depending on whether the application is by mail or in person.

How to Submit Your Application

By Post

Complete the form and attach clear, legible copies of your identification documents. Mail the application to:

Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages PO Box 7720 Cloisters Square Perth WA 6850

In Person

Visit the Registry at Level 10/141 St Georges Terrace, Perth, between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Bring the completed form, original identification documents, and payment.

Identification Requirements and Verification

To ensure the security and authenticity of requests, the registry employs a third-party verification system. Applicants must provide at least three forms of identification, with specific combinations depending on the list options provided:

• One document from List 1 (must include a photograph), one from List 2, and one from List 3, or
• Two from List 2 and one from List 3, or
• One from List 1 and two from List 2.

All identification documents must be current and unexpired. For applications without consent, certified copies or original documents are required.

Processing Times and Fees

The standard processing time for this application is up to two working days, plus postal delivery. For urgent requests, a priority fee can be paid, which ensures processing within 24 hours plus express post within Australia. International applications may take up to two days for processing, with certificates sent via regular airmail.

The current fee for the certificate is outlined on page 2 of the form, with additional charges for priority processing and postage options. Payment can be made by MasterCard or Visa, or via money order payable to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA.

Important Points to Remember

Ensure all sections of the application are completed and signed before submission. Do not email the form; submissions by mail or in person are required. Attach all necessary identification documents to prevent delays.

For further details about the application process, verification procedures, or to access the form, visit the official website of the Department of Justice WA or contact the registry directly during business hours.

Conclusion

The Previous Change of Name Certificate Application (BDM450) provides a formal proof of a person's prior registered name in Western Australia. Proper completion and submission of this form, along with the required identification, ensure a smooth process to obtain this important document for personal or legal use.