Add or remove a parent from a birth registration
You can apply to add or remove a parent’s details on a child’s birth registration that occurred in NSW.
These applications permanently change the records on the birth register. To be issued an updated birth certificate showing the new details, you must opt in for this and pay an additional fee.
Adding a parent
One or both parents can make a joint application to add the second parent to the birth registration.
If the child was born as a result of a fertilisation procedure:
- both parents must have been in a married or de facto relationship at the time of the procedure, and
- the parent to be added to the register must have consented to the procedure.
One parent may apply, in the case of a court ordering the inclusion of the information of the father or other parent.
To include DNA test results as evidence in your application, it is necessary to have the testing conducted by an authorised laboratory.
When the application has been finalised, the birth register will be updated. If you have also chosen to order a birth certificate, you will be issued with an updated certificate.
Removing a parent
One parent may apply, in the case of a court order making a finding about the identity of the father or other parent.
To include DNA test results as evidence in your application, you may choose to have the testing conducted by an authorised laboratory.
If DNA parentage testing has been conducted but not by an authorised laboratory, you should supply further supporting evidence. This may include a statutory declaration from the other parent or other family members who have knowledge of the birth, or any other supporting documentation you have.
After the parent is no longer listed, they will lose their rights to the certificate. Please be aware that any additional information on the child's birth certificate, including details about other children or marriage, will also be removed.
Download and complete the relevant form.
Add a parent
Complete the Add a parent to a birth application (PDF 293.91KB) form.
You can select to order and pay for an updated birth certificate within this application.
Remove a parent
Complete the Removing a parent's details from a birth registration (PDF 648.18KB) form.
When the application has been finalised, the birth register will be updated. If you require an updated birth certificate, you will need to apply for a new birth certificate at Birth certificates.
Apply in person
Bring your original identity documents with you to a Service NSW service centre.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by a National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) accredited translator.
Apply by post
If you are applying by post, you must enclose copies of your identity documents certified by a:
- Justice of the Peace
- notary public
- practicing solicitor / lawyer
- Service NSW officer or
- other approved witness listed on the application form.
You must provide a least 3 forms of current identification.
- At least one must be provided from Category 1 and must contain your full name, date of birth and place of birth.
- At least two must be from Category 2 and 3, or 3 and 4.
- If you cannot meet these requirements, please contact us.
| Category | Documents |
|---|---|
| 1 | If born in Australia:
Record of immigration status:
|
| 2 |
|
| 3 |
|
| 4 |
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| Application | Fee |
|---|---|
| Add or remove a parent on a birth registration AND order an updated birth certificate ($11 postage and handling included in the fee) | $150 |
| Add or remove a parent on a birth registration only | $83 |