How to change your preferred name at Deakin and find other gender affirmation support
If you’re a transgender, gender-diverse or non-binary student, we want you to be able to bring your whole and true self to Deakin.
We fully support your right to use your preferred name at university. Where possible, we pledge to eliminate ‘deadnaming’ – referring to someone by the name they used before affirming their gender (such as a birth name).
That’s why we’ve been working with Deakin Pride, DUSA’s student club for LGBTIQ+, queer or questioning students and allies, to make it easier for you to change your personal details at our university.
How to change your personal details at Deakin
We’re pleased to say that most of our general communication and systems now use your preferred name (where there is no legal requirement to show your legal given name). At present, we are required to keep using given names on formal documentation, including graduation documents.
If you would like to change your preferred name, go to StudentConnect, and you can update your title, gender and legal name by filling out a simple online form. Remember that you’ll need the required certified documentation to change your legal name.
You can also request a new Deakin Card that uses your preferred name.
Read more about changing your personal details.
We care about your wellbeing
Need some help with changing your personal details or other gender affirmation support? We encourage you to contact a trained Inclusion Officer, who will give you personalised advice and refer you to other useful services.
Queer rooms are maintained by DUSA at our Burwood and Waurn Ponds campuses and offer a welcoming, supportive space for LGBTIQ+ students. Visit our queer rooms at:
- Burwood – Building C (ground floor, next to security)
- Waurn Ponds – Building JB (ground floor, near DUSA reception).
Learn more about the DUSA queer rooms and LGBTIQ+ resources and support to help with your gender affirmation journey and your time at uni.