Understanding the Uncertified Copy of Birth, Death, or Marriage Registration from Western Australia
If you need a copy of a birth, death, or marriage record from Western Australia for personal or genealogical purposes, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA offers an official service to obtain an uncertified copy of these historical records. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, requirements, and important considerations for requesting such documents.
What is an Uncertified Copy and Its Purpose?
An uncertified copy is a reproduction of a scanned historical registration document provided at a reduced fee. It is important to understand that this copy is not suitable for legal or official purposes, such as establishing identity or for legal proceedings. Instead, it serves mainly for personal reference, family history research, or genealogical investigations.
The records available through this service cover different periods depending on the type of record:
- Birth records from 1841 to 1924
- Death records from 1841 to 1983
- Marriage records from 1841 to 1949
Preparing Your Application
Before submitting your application, ensure you have all the necessary information and documentation. The application form (coded FH2) must be completed accurately and signed. You will need to provide specific details about the record you are requesting, including:
- Full name at birth or at the time of death/marriage
- Date and place of birth/death/marriage
- Names of parents or parties involved
Additionally, you must specify your preferred delivery method: email or postal mail. If no choice is indicated, the document will be sent by post.
Submitting Your Application
Online Submission
The easiest way to apply is through the online portal via myGov, where you can complete the application form electronically. However, for uncertified copies, the application must be printed, signed, and sent by mail or lodged in person.
By Post
To apply by mail, complete the FH2 form, attach clear copies of your identification, and send it to:
Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages PO Box 7720 Cloisters Square Perth WA 6850
In Person
Applications can also be lodged in person at:
Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages Level 10/141 St Georges Terrace Perth WA Between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday
Payment and Fees
The fee for an uncertified copy is AUD 25.00. Payment can be made via credit card (MasterCard or Visa) or by money order payable to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages. When applying for multiple certificates, only one payment is necessary, provided all applications are submitted together on the same form.
Processing Times and Delivery
Applicants should allow up to 15 working days for processing, excluding postal delivery times. Once ready, the document will be sent according to the chosen delivery method. It is recommended to plan accordingly, especially if the document is needed for time-sensitive purposes.
Fill in your form directly online
No printing: type your details into the boxes of the official form, tick, then download the PDF ready to send.
- 1Type into the form boxes
- 2Tick in one click
- 3Save and download the PDF
Important Considerations
Since the records are scanned historical documents, the quality and legibility may vary. The copies are not certified, and therefore, cannot be used as legal proof of identity or for official legal proceedings.
Regarding content, some entries, especially from the open era records, may contain language or details that could be considered offensive. Applicants can request an unredacted copy if they are prepared to accept this possibility, but the Registry will assume consent if no such request is made.
Additional Information and Contact Details
For further details about the application process, fees, or privacy policies, visit the official website of the Department of Justice at www.justice.wa.gov.au/bdm. For assistance, you can contact the Registry by phone at 1300 305 021, available Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Remember, it is an offence to provide false or misleading information on your application, and all applications must be truthful and accurate to avoid legal issues.