Western Australia Vital Records Search Guide

Understanding the Official Application for a Birth, Death, or Marriage Search in Western Australia

The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages WA provides a formal process for individuals seeking to locate records of vital events that occurred within Western Australia. The official form, identified by the code BDM350, is essential for anyone wishing to confirm details about births, deaths, or marriages registered in the state. This article offers a comprehensive overview of this application process, guiding applicants through its objectives, requirements, and procedures.

Purpose and Scope of the Form

The primary aim of the BDM350 form is to facilitate a search for specific vital records within Western Australia’s official registry. This service is crucial for individuals conducting genealogical research, legal inquiries, or personal verification. When a matching record is identified, the registry issues a Result of Search confirmation letter, providing confirmation of the event's registration details.

It is important to note that this form only covers searches for events that may have occurred in Western Australia. The search can extend over a specified period, typically in increments of ten years or less, depending on the details provided by the applicant. Fees apply per search period, and the current rates are detailed on page 2 of the form.

Preparing Your Application

Gathering Necessary Information

To ensure an efficient search, applicants should prepare comprehensive details about the event they are investigating. For a birth search, this includes the surname at birth, other surnames used, given names, date and place of birth, and parental information. For death records, details such as the full name, date and place of death, and any known surnames are required. Marriage searches necessitate full names of both parties, date, and place of marriage.

Providing Identification

When submitting the application, especially for searches outside the Open Era (more than 100 years for births, 30 years for deaths, and 75 years for marriages), applicants must provide proof of identity. The registry uses third-party verification systems, and applicants must complete the Consent to Verification section on page 2 of the form. For postal applications, certified copies of identification documents are required, whereas in-person submissions must be accompanied by original documents.

Submitting the Application

Methods of Submission

• By Post: Complete the form, attach clear copies of identity documents, and mail to the registry’s postal address. It is recommended to include a self-addressed registered or express post envelope for faster processing.
• In Person: Submit the form along with original ID and payment at the registry’s office located at Level 10/141 St Georges Terrace, Perth, during business hours (9.00 am to 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday).

Note that applications sent via email or fax are not accepted. Ensure all information is legible and complete to prevent delays.

Processing Times and Fees

The standard processing time is up to 2 working days, plus regular postal delivery. Applicants can expedite their request by including a prepaid registered or express post envelope. Each search costs $36.00, covering a period of up to ten years or part thereof, and includes regular postage. Separate applications are necessary to obtain official certificates of the event, which require an additional fee of $60.

Additional Considerations

Access to Records

Records older than 100 years for births, 30 years for deaths, and 75 years for marriages are accessible without proof of identity. For more recent records, applicants must demonstrate their authority to access the information, often requiring written consent from the person entitled to the certificate and additional identification.

Privacy and Legal Obligations

The registry handles sensitive personal information and is committed to protecting privacy under the Department of Justice’s Privacy Statement. Making false or misleading statements in an application is an offence under the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1998.

Contact and Further Information

For questions or assistance, applicants can visit the official website at www.justice.wa.gov.au/bdm or call the registry at 1300 305 021 during office hours. Detailed instructions and updates are available to ensure a smooth application process.