Student preferred names initiative

We're updating UQ systems so students can change their preferred (chosen) name.

Our students are diverse, unique individuals. We want to enable them to express their identity authentically. Some students may prefer to use a different name to their legal name, which is recorded on their birth certificate or passport.

This project, to enable students to update their preferred name, is a collaboration between ITS and Student Affairs, guided by a working group. The working group spans faculties, ITS, Academic Services, Library, Student Affairs, UQ Ally Network and Marketing and Communications.

What will change?

Students who use a different name than the one on their legal identification will be able to change their name in some UQ systems.

While they can change their preferred name, students may not see it reflected across all UQ systems. We're working on updating and connecting systems to streamline these changes - but it will take time.

Our ICT ecosystem is vast and diverse. We're working on the most significant and prominent system first - the student record system (SI-NET). Other systems will follow.

We'll continue to record a student's legal name, which is essential for official legal records like academic transcripts, and linking to Government systems like my.Gov and the Unique Student Identifier (USI) Registry. This initiative will ensure we can use a student's preferred name wherever possible, and legal name when required.

How can students update their preferred name?

Students who wish to change their preferred name can log in to mySi-net, and complete the form on the 'Name Details' tab. Changes will be immediate in mySI-net, with other identified systems pending scheduled updates.

Visit my.UQ for more information on adding or updating a preferred name.

Frequently asked questions