How to Register a Name Change for a Child Under 18 in Western

Understanding the Application to Register a Change of Name for a Child Under 18 in Western Australia

If you need to change the name of a child under 18 years old in Western Australia, the official Application to register a change of name form (code: BDM401) is the necessary legal document. Managed by the Department of Justice’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages, this form ensures that the child's new name is officially recorded and reflected on their birth certificate and other relevant records. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the process, eligibility criteria, required documentation, and steps to successfully submit your application.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

The application is specifically designed for parents or guardians seeking to change a child's name in Western Australia. To be eligible, the following conditions must be met:

• The child must be under 18 years old.
• The child's birth must be registered in Western Australia, or they must have been born overseas and meet residency and citizenship requirements.
• If the child was born outside WA, they must be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident, and have lived in WA continuously for the 12 months prior to the application.

Additional considerations include:

• If the child is a Restricted Person, approval from their Supervisory Authority is required.
• If the child was born interstate, the application must be lodged with the Registry in the state or territory of birth.
• Name changes are limited to once every 12 months unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Who Can Submit the Application?

Depending on the circumstances, the application can be submitted by:

• Both parents jointly, if they both have parental responsibility and the child is not married or in a registered marriage.
• One parent, if they are the sole parent listed on the birth registration or if the other parent is deceased (a death certificate must be provided).
• Legal guardians, if both parents are deceased or cannot be located, supported by proof of guardianship.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the Application

1. Preparing Supporting Documentation

Before filling out the form, gather all necessary documents, including:

• Identification for the child (if aged 12 or over), such as a current passport or photo ID.
• Identification for the parent(s) or guardian(s), including proof of their identity.
• Evidence of previous name changes, if applicable.
• Legal documents such as court orders if the name change is court-mandated.
• If the child was born overseas, additional documents like birth certificates, citizenship certificates, and visas are required.

2. Completing the Application Form

The form BDM401 is available online through the Department of Justice's website or can be obtained in person. When completing the form, ensure all questions are answered fully and accurately. The form includes sections for personal details, details of the current and proposed names, and declarations regarding the child's residency and citizenship status.

3. Submitting the Application

The completed form, supporting documents, and payment of the fee (which is specified on the form) can be submitted either by mail or in person:

• By mail: Send to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages at PO Box 7720, Cloisters Square, Perth WA 6850.
• In person: Visit Level 10/141 St Georges Terrace, Perth.

Important Considerations and Possible Refusals

The Registrar has the authority to refuse the application if:

• Required proof of identity is missing or incomplete.
• The child has had a name change registered within the past 12 months elsewhere in Australia.
• All previous name changes have not been declared.
• The proposed name is prohibited, offensive, or not suitable for registration.
• Fraudulent or improper intentions are suspected.

If the application is refused, the applicant will be notified in writing, including the reasons for refusal.

Post-Registration and Effect of Name Change

Once approved and registered, the child's new name will be recorded on their birth certificate, which will be issued with the updated details. The original name remains recorded on the birth certificate for reference. The change may also be notified to relevant authorities and organizations, such as the Passport Office, Department of Transport, and other government agencies.

Summary

Changing a child's name in Western Australia involves careful preparation, proper documentation, and adherence to legal requirements. By following the outlined steps and ensuring all criteria are met, parents and guardians can successfully update their child's name through the Department of Justice's Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. For further assistance, contact details are provided on the official website and within the application instructions.