Trans Help

Choosing a name

There is no wrong way to go about choosing a new name. Some people name themselves after their favourite character, some name themselves after important people in their lives, and some name themselves after objects and all of that is totally valid. However if you don't want to name yourself after someone baby name websites are a great place to start. There are many resources out there for choosing new names, but one we recommend is Trans Name Swap on Tumblr. You can ask for a list of names with a certain letter, sound, culture, connotation, or even just a vibe. Make sure to state if you want feminine, masculine, or neutral sounding names.

Testing out names and pronouns

The best way to test out a new name and pronouns is getting a trusted person to address you with them, but if you don't have access to that you still have a few other options. One is the Starbucks test - you give your name you're trying out for them to put on the cup and then see how you feel when it's called out. Another much more covert way is by using The Pronoun Dressing Room, a website where you enter a name and pronouns and it creates a short story using them.

Clothing

Getting and wearing clothing of your true gender can be really scary but here's a few tips on how to start out. Ask friends or family that you're out to if they have any spare clothes you could wear, and wear clothing of your gender around them. Opshops are a great way to find cheap clothes for your gender, however sizing may be difficult. If you cannot or don't feel comfortable buying clothes in person, online shopping is a great way to get around this. Lastly, look around at events on Facebook as sometimes there are Trans clothing swaps held around Hamilton.

Changing your name and gender marker legally

Name change

To change the name on your birth certificate you will need to fill out a name change statutory declaration form. This declaration needs to be signed in front of a Justice of the Peace or other authorised person.

The information required includes your new names, and your birth names. No other documentation is required for this unless you have previously changed your name, or if your citizenship is in another country. In those cases, some additional info may be required. This form also contains an application for a copy of your birth certificate with your new legal name.

You will need to fill in this form and send it in the post to the address given on the form, to receive your new birth certificate. The fee for the name change and a copy of your new birth certificate is around $200 all together.

Gender Marker Change

Here is a link to a PDF with everything you need to know about changing your gender marker on your birth certificate - Change your Gender Marker

Disclaimer - Unfortunately they may only accept your application for gender marker change if you have 'had medical treatment to change your gender', or medically transitioned.

Birth Certificate Name and Gender Marker Change