Add or remove a parent from a birth registration

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.