How to Apply for a Commemorative Birth Certificate in Western

Understanding the Commemorative Birth Certificate Application in Western Australia

The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA offers a special service for families and individuals wishing to commemorate a birth with a personalized certificate. The Commemorative Birth Certificate Application Form (BDM20) is designed to allow eligible applicants to obtain a beautifully crafted keepsake that celebrates a child's birth. This article provides a detailed overview of the purpose, eligibility criteria, application process, and important considerations for submitting this form.

Purpose and Features of the Commemorative Birth Certificate

The primary goal of the commemorative certificate is to serve as a cherished memento rather than an official identification document. It is available for children born or registered in Western Australia, and it allows parents or the registered individual (if over 16) to create a personalised keepsake. The certificate can include various designs, such as balloons, wildlife, or floral themes, and offers options to imprint handprints or footprints for a personal touch.

Each order includes a standard birth certificate at no extra cost, with additional decorative options available for purchase. The commemorative certificate is sent in a carded A4 envelope, and it is important to note that it cannot be used for identification purposes.

Eligibility and Conditions for Application

• The applicant must be either the person named in the birth record (over 16 years old) or a parent named on the original birth certificate.
• The birth must have been registered in Western Australia.
• The application must be made by completing the official form (BDM20) and providing proof of identity.
• Applicants cannot submit this form via email; submissions are accepted by post or in person.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the Application Form

1. Providing Birth Details

Start by entering the child's surname, given names, date of birth, and place of birth. Accurate information ensures the correct certificate is issued.

2. Selecting the Certificate Design

Choose from available design options such as Baby Prints, Balloon, Bears, Floral, Hands, Landscape, Our Golden Past, Wildlife, Rainbow, or Numbat. Indicate the quantity needed for each design.

3. Completing Personal Details

Fill in the applicant's full name, postal address, contact number, and email address. Clarify your relationship to the person named on the birth record (e.g., parent or self).

4. Consent and Verification

Read and sign the 'Consent to Verification' section, authorizing the Registry to verify your identity through third-party systems. This step is mandatory for processing your application.

5. Payment Process

Payment can be made via credit/debit card (MasterCard or Visa) or by including a money order payable to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. Ensure you complete the payment details on only one form if applying for multiple certificates.

Submission and Processing Times

Applications can be submitted by mail or in person:

• By Post: Send the completed form along with certified copies of identification documents to:
• Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages
• PO Box 7720, Cloisters Square, Perth WA 6850
• In Person: Lodge the form with original ID and payment at:
• Level 10/141 St Georges Terrace, Perth

Processing times vary:

• Standard: Up to 2 working days plus postal delivery.
• Priority: Within 24 hours plus express post within Australia.
• International: Up to 2 working days, sent via regular air mail.

Identification and Privacy Requirements

Applicants must provide original or certified copies of identification documents that include a photograph, such as a driver’s license, passport, or Medicare card. If consent is not given, certified copies are required for postal applications. The Registry uses third-party systems to verify identity, ensuring the security of personal data.

All personal information collected is managed in accordance with the Department of Justice’s privacy policies. Certificates contain sensitive information and are accessible under specific legal provisions, especially for records older than 100 years.

Important Reminders

Applicants should ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays. False or misleading statements in the application can constitute an offense. For further assistance or questions, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA can be contacted at 1300 305 021 during business hours or visited online at www.justice.wa.gov.au/bdm.