Child Development: Baby Names

Child Naming Regulations

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There are certain regulations you need to follow when naming your child. These regulation will differ around the world.

In Italy, local officials are required to report all unusual names to the government. This came to head in 2008 when a child was named Venerdi (translated as 'Friday').

In Australia, birth registration documentation states that naming your child is a matter of choice, though you may not chose a name that is obscene, offensive, unreasonably long or contrary to the public interest. Most names are acceptable, provided they are made up of the letters of the alphabet. The name has to be able to be used in society, it can't be a symbol like the @ symbol, or a sentence and they won't register names that would give your child a title. In particular, the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act a registrar can refuse to register a name if:

• It is obscene or offensive
  
• Cannot be established by repute or usage
  
• If it's too long
  
• If it contains symbols without phonetic significance, such as an exclamation or question mark.
  
• Is contrary to public interest
  
• Contains an official title or rank recognised in Australia such as King, Lady, Father, Sir or Admiral.

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