Changing Name & Gender

Three valid identity documents.

Completed statutory declaration signed by an authorised witness.

Completed statement of support from an adult who has known you for at least 12 months.

If you were born overseas, you must also provide proof that you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and proof of your current and continuous residency in NSW for at least 12 months.

If you are a restricted person, you must also obtain written approval from your relevant supervising authority.

Three valid identity documents each for the child and parents or guardians.

Completed statutory declaration by the child, if the child is able to complete one, or a statement of support from both parents or guardians stating they believe on reasonable grounds that alteration of the child’s sex record is in the child’s best interests.

Completed statement of support from a qualified counsellor who has provided counselling to the child.

If the child was born overseas, you must also provide proof of the child’s Australian citizenship or permanent residency, and proof of the child’s current and continuous residency in NSW for at least 12 months.

If you are a sole parent or guardian applying, you must also provide a copy of the child's birth certificate or guardianship order showing you are the only parent or guardian for the child, OR a copy of the deceased parent's or guardian’s death certificate, if the death occurred outside of NSW, OR a copy of a District Court order approving the child's alteration of sex or registration of acknowledgment of sex.

Please note that a change of name and change of sex application are two separate applications with different eligibility requirements.

If you plan to change your name and your sex, the Registry recommends following these steps so they can coordinate your applications, and you only need to order one birth certificate or recognised details certificate:

Apply for a change of name online first: Submit your application and take note of the Online Reference Number (ORN) that is emailed to you. It’s recommended to order a change of name certificate to assist with updating your details across other organisations. Note: Do not order a birth certificate or recognised details certificate at this stage.

Apply for a change of sex online: please use the same email address. When prompted, enter the ORN.

Order a certificate (Optional): It's recommended to order include a new birth certificate or recognised details certificate in your change of sex application to assist with updating your details across other organisations.

Processing: The Registry will process both applications together, so any ordered birth certificate or recognised details certificate reflects both your updated sex and new name.

Please note: the new birth certificate or recognised details certificate will be posted in your former name. Your new certificate is needed before you can update your other identity documents. As certificates are delivered via Registered Post, you will need an existing identity document in your former name to collect the mail.

If your application is approved, you will need to update your details with other organisations to have your new sex descriptor across your personal accounts and other identity documents.

Start by making a list of who to contact. Your list may include:

Australian Passport Office
Transport NSW
Banks
Australian Taxation Office
Australian Electoral Commission
NSW Electoral Commission
Medicare
Insurance companies
Doctors/dentist
Superannuation fund