Types of birth certificate

When you request a birth certificate you can choose from either:

• a standard certificate: this is a legal document that uses security paper. This is the version of birth certificate most widely accepted for proof of identity.
• a commemorative certificate: these use normal paper and decorative styles. They are not generally accepted as a legal document
• a standard and commemorative certificate package: you can order the legal document and a commemorative version
• an Integrated Birth Certificate: this certificate is a legal document that combines a person’s birth details before and after their adoption. It is recognised in addition to a standard certificate as Primary proof of identity.

Read how to apply for a birth certificate.

Standard certificates

Standard certificates use security paper that makes them almost impossible to copy or tamper with.

They are a Primary proof of identity document.

Integrated Birth Certificates use the standard certificate template.

They include:

• See-through Register
• Anti-Copy Screen Tapping
• Security Pattern
• Microtext – Positive/Negative
• Split Colour Rainbow
• Unique Serial Number
• UV Invisible Florescence
• UV Visible Florescence
• UV Rainbow.

If you think you have a fraudulent birth certificate, email the Births, Deaths and Marriages team: BDM@act.gov.au.

Commemorative birth certificates

Commemorative birth certificates use normal paper and decorative designs.

They are not accepted as a Primary proof of identity.

You can apply for a package that includes the standard birth certificate and a commemorative version.

The options available are:

Bears

Bluebell

Blue bunny

Bubbles

Canberra

Capital

Duck

Flags

Pink bunny

Sparkles

Woods