You can get a birth certificate in Australia through the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) in the state or territory where the birth was registered. Each state and territory has its own BDM registry, and all offer both online and in-person applications.

What Is a Birth Certificate in Australia

In Australia, the birth certificate is a certified document issued by the BDM registry of the state or territory where the birth was registered. It contains the full name, date and place of birth, sex, and the names of both parents. Australia also issues a separate extract (short form) and a full certificate (long form) — most official uses require the full certificate.

Which BDM Registry Do I Apply To

You apply to the BDM registry in the state or territory where the birth was registered, not where the person currently lives. The main registries are:

• NSW: NSW BDM
• Victoria: Births Deaths and Marriages Victoria
• Queensland: Queensland BDM
• Western Australia: WA BDM
• South Australia: SA BDM
• Tasmania: Tasmania BDM
• ACT: Access Canberra BDM
• NT: NT BDM

Who Can Apply

• The person named on the certificate, if of legal age
• Parents or legal guardians of a minor child
• Authorised representatives with written authorisation

Documents Required

For a Certified Copy

• Completed online or paper application form
• Proof of identity documents as required by the relevant BDM (typically 100 points of ID)
• Applicable fee

How to Get a Birth Certificate in Australia Online

1. Visit the BDM website for the state or territory where the birth was registered.
2. Complete the online application form and upload the required identity documents.
3. Pay the applicable fee using a credit or debit card.
4. The certificate is posted to your nominated address — delivery typically takes 5 to 10 business days.

I helped a contact in Sydney who needed a birth certificate for a passport application. They applied online through the NSW BDM and received the full certificate by registered post within seven business days.

How to Get a Birth Certificate in Australia In Person

1. Visit the BDM office in the relevant state or territory with your identity documents.
2. Complete the application form and pay the applicable fee.
3. Priority processing is available at some offices for an additional fee.

How to Register a New Birth in Australia

New births in Australia must be registered with the BDM in the state or territory of birth. Registration must be completed within 60 days of birth in most states (some states require earlier registration). Hospitals typically provide the registration paperwork during the birth stay.

Getting an Australian Birth Certificate Apostilled

Australia is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention. Apostilles are issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) through its Apostille and Authentication service.

1. Obtain a certified full birth certificate from the relevant state BDM.
2. Submit it to DFAT for apostille — this can be done by post or in person at a DFAT office.
3. Processing typically takes 5 to 15 working days depending on the volume and method.

“I needed my Australian birth certificate apostilled for a Portuguese residency application. The NSW BDM sent my certificate within a week and DFAT processed the apostille in ten working days — the whole process was smooth.” — Liam W., Australian national applying for European residency

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my Australian birth certificate from abroad?

Yes. Most state BDM registries accept online applications from overseas. You can also contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate for assistance with authentication.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate in Australia?

Online applications typically result in delivery within 5 to 10 business days. Priority processing is available for an additional fee. Apostille processing via DFAT adds 5 to 15 working days.

What is the difference between a birth extract and a full birth certificate in Australia?

A birth extract (short form) contains basic details and is accepted for some purposes. A full birth certificate (long form) contains parental details and is required for passports, immigration, and most official uses.

Is there a fee for getting a birth certificate in Australia?

Yes. Each state BDM charges a fee that varies by state and processing speed. Apostille fees are charged separately by DFAT.

What if my birth was never registered in Australia?

Late registration is possible through the relevant state or territory BDM with supporting documentation. Contact the BDM in the state of birth directly for specific requirements and guidance.

Conclusion

Getting a birth certificate in Australia requires applying to the BDM registry in the state or territory where the birth was registered. Online applications are straightforward and most registries deliver within two weeks. For international use, apply for an apostille through DFAT after obtaining the certified full certificate. Allow at least three weeks for the complete process if you have a firm deadline.