Tiana* and her mother were survivors of domestic and family violence, with Tiana’s father convicted of sexual offences against her. At the age of 16, Tiana wanted to be known by her mother’s maiden name and to remove the daily reminder of her father.
Townsville Community Law assisted Tiana with a name change application and sought financial support for Tiana to cover the fees for the process to re-issue her birth certificate. Tiana was also emotionally supported as she was required to contact her father as part of the process.
As a result of successfully changing her name, Tiana feels better protected from further emotional and psychological harm. The process was essential for her ongoing recovery and personal autonomy in the face of trauma.
*Name changed to protect identity