Registering your bub
- Is free
- The hospital does not do it for you, it's your responsibility
- Register your bub within 60 days of birth
- It's never too late to register your bub and you won't get in trouble if you miss the cutoff date.
Why it's important
After you register your baby's birth, you can then apply for a birth certificate.
A birth certificate is a proof of name and age document that makes it easier for your child to:
- access health services like Medicare
- enrol in daycare and school
- take part in organised sport
- open a bank account
- get a driver's licence or passport
- complete a Working with Children Check
- receive government benefits.
You also need to register your baby if you are applying for certain government benefits like parental leave.
Watch the video below about the Our Kids Count campaign and registering your baby.
How to register your baby
Have your ID ready
Gather the identification items you will need. Find the ID list at Register your baby.
Complete the online application
Fill out the online registration form.
If you need help accessing a computer or completing the form, you can ask for help at a Service NSW Centre, or find a community event near you for assistance.
Submit your application
When you submit your application you can also choose to purchase a birth certificate.
If the fee for the birth certificate is a barrier, you can ask for assistance at a community event.
How to get help
Visit a Service Centre
Find your closest Service Centre and we can help you register in person.
Call us
Call us on 13 77 88 for help over the phone.
Let us know when you call if you would like your enquiry handled by an Indigenous staff member.
Attend an event
You can register your bub at a community event. We provide a limited number of free birth certificates at these events.
Missing documentation
Stolen Generations
Sometimes it can be difficult to get copies of the documents you need to register your baby. For example, if you or your relatives were separated from family and culture through forced removal, being fostered, adopted or raised in an institution.
Help is available. Contact Link-Up (NSW) Aboriginal Corporation
Proof of Aboriginality
Some Indigenous-specific services, programs and grants ask you for proof of heritage. We do not provide certificates that confirm Aboriginality.
Visit the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) website to learn more.
Other helpful services
To get help, you can also speak with:
- a local mums and bubs group
- your local cultural centre
- your local Aboriginal health practitioner
- Aboriginal health and medical services
- Aboriginal maternal and infant health services
- Australian Nurse-Family Partnership Program
- Find a Community Centre.
Related information
Register your baby
Having a baby
Our step-by-step guide can help you manage your finances, understand your responsibilities and find support services.
Community events calendar
Find an event near you to assist with registering a birth and obtaining a birth certificate.