This is a common question to our members.  Our members are always happy to order on your behalf or as part of a research job they are doing for you.

However, if you are wishing to order yourself, then you need to know that there is no central repository in Australia.  Each state has it’s own birth, marriage and death registry and New Zealand also has it’s own.  Therefore you need to contact the registry in the state that you wish to order the certificate from.

Some states like NSW & SA have transcription services available, this is cheaper, though you must remember is it a transcription of the information from the certificate and not the actual certificate.  It will depend what you require it for as to whether this is sufficient.

In some states you can also purchase unwanted certificates from Family History Societies, for example Family History WA have approx. 5000 certificates available, however it needs to be kept in mind that the certificates aren’t all Western Australian certificates, they are from various locations including outside of Australia.   There is also a Miscellaneous Australian Certificates Register that you can order second hand certificates from if you are lucky enough to find one in the lists that you require.   Looking for cheaper certificate in these lists can take more time, however, if you are researching on a budget it may worth having a look.

In general we recommend purchasing certificates to prove relationships to avoid accidently researching an incorrect line.  Many family members are named after each other, and you’ve be surprised how often there is someone of a similar name in the same area that isn’t even related. It always best to ensure you do have the right family member.  If you would like assistance with ordering certificates, our record agents are able to assist, click here for a list.