For centuries, hetrosexual women have been expected to change their last name to that of their husband after marriage. The tradition originated from the belief that a woman became a man's property after marriage and taking his name was a way of symbolising this ownership. However, in modern times, the practice of women changing their last name when they get married has become a matter of personal choice rather than a societal norm.
In Australia, there has been a significant decline in the number of women changing their last names after marriage. According to a survey conducted by Easy Name Change, around 80% of Australian women still take their husband's last name after marriage, while around 15% opt for a hyphenated surname, and the rest keep their maiden name. However, this trend is gradually changing as more women choose to keep their maiden names after marriage.
80% of Australian women still take their husband's last name after marriage.
The decision to change your last name after marriage is a personal choice and should be based on what feels right for you. There is no right or wrong answer, and it ultimately depends on your personal beliefs and values. If you do decide to change your name, it's important to consider the implications it may have on your career, including at work.
When it comes to changing your name at work, it's essential to inform your employer and colleagues of your new name. This includes updating your email signature, business cards, and any other relevant documents or records. You should also update your LinkedIn and other professional profiles to reflect your new name. This can help ensure that your professional network is aware of the change and can avoid any confusion or miscommunication.
If you're hesitant about changing your name at work, you're not alone. Many women worry that changing their name could negatively impact their career, especially if they have built a professional reputation under their maiden name. However, studies have shown that this is not necessarily the case. A survey conducted by LinkedIn found that changing your last name after marriage does not have a significant impact on your career prospects. However, changing your name could have an impact on your career, with some women reporting that their colleagues or clients struggled to adjust to their new name, leading to confusion or even missed opportunities.
In Australia, there is no legal requirement to change your name after marriage, but if you do decide to change your name, you will need to update your name with government agencies, banks, employers, and other organisations. A survey by Officeworks found that 44% of women found changing their name to be a difficult process, with 28% of those citing the cost as a major factor. Items like Name Change Kits can help.
These statistics highlight the importance of considering the impact that changing your name can have, both personally and professionally. While it can be a meaningful choice for some women, it is important to weigh the potential challenges and make an informed decision.
Ultimately, the decision to change your name after marriage is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. It's important to consider the implications it may have on your personal and professional life and make the choice that feels right for you.