How to Apply for a Death Certificate in Western Australia

Guide to Applying for a Death Certificate in Western Australia

If you need to obtain a death certificate for a person who was registered in Western Australia, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA provides a straightforward application process. This official document serves as proof of death and is often required for estate settlements, legal proceedings, or family history research. Here’s a comprehensive overview to help you understand the purpose, eligibility, and steps involved in applying for a death certificate in WA.

Understanding the Purpose and Eligibility

A death certificate issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA confirms the official registration of a person's death. It is available only if the death was registered within Western Australia. The certificate can be requested by certain close relatives or individuals with a legal interest, including:

• Spouse or de facto partner (including a named partner)
• Parents of the deceased
• Children of the deceased

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate their relationship to the deceased and provide evidence of this connection. If you are not directly related, you may need to obtain written consent from someone who is entitled to the certificate, along with appropriate identification.

Preparing Your Application

Step 1: Gather Required Information

Before completing the application form, ensure you have the following details about the deceased:

• Surname and given names
• Date and place of death
• Full names of the deceased’s parents, including maiden surname if applicable

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

The official form, titled Death Certificate Application Form (BDM2), must be filled out accurately. The form requests personal details of the applicant, relationship to the deceased, and the reason for requesting the certificate (e.g., estate settlement, legal reasons, family history).

Applicants must also provide consent to verification of their identity, authorizing the Registry to check their details via third-party systems. This step ensures security and compliance with privacy regulations.

Step 3: Provide Identification

Identification is mandatory for all applicants. Acceptable documents include:

• Original or certified copies of a driver’s licence, passport, or proof of age card
• Medicare card, Centrelink card, or birth certificate
• Bank statement, utility bill, or vehicle registration (for in-person applications)

Applicants lodging their application in person must present original identification documents, while postal applications require certified copies.

Submitting Your Application

Applications can be submitted either by post or in person:

• By Post: Complete the form, attach clear copies of your identification, and mail to:

  Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages PO Box 7720, Cloisters Square Perth WA 6850

Note: Faxed or emailed applications are not accepted to maintain security standards.

Fees and Processing Times

Processing times depend on the service selected: the standard process generally takes up to 2 working days plus postal delivery, while priority applications are processed within 24 hours plus express delivery. International requests may take up to 2 days for processing, with certificates sent via regular airmail.

Important Considerations

The Registry emphasizes the importance of accurate information and proper identification. Providing false or misleading information is a legal offence under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1998. Additionally, the privacy of personal records is protected; certificates for deaths registered over 30 years ago are freely accessible, while recent records are restricted.

For further assistance, applicants can contact the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA at 1300 305 021 during business hours or visit their official website for detailed guidance on verification and certification procedures.