Digital birth certificates are now available in NSW, but only for the state’s hundreds of thousands of young people.
From today, people aged 16 to 21 who hold a photo card or driver’s licence can choose to set up a digital birth certificate for free on the Service NSW app.
The state government said the digital document was secure and designed to adhere to international security standards.
NSW is rolling out a digital birth certificate. (NSW Government)
”I’m proud that NSW is the first place in Australia where young people across the state can carry their birth certificate securely on their phone, instead of having to rummage through drawers or call mum and dad,” Digital Government Minister Jihad Dib said.
“For young people living away from home for work and study, this digital document provides instant convenience when they need their birth certificate to apply for certifications and licences – making it easier to apply for jobs.
“The digital birth certificate offers a secure and convenient way to access one of the most important identity documents, giving people greater control over personal information.
“It’s the same as having a birth certificate in your pocket, but much more secure.”
Jihad Dib, NSW Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government. (Martin Ollman)
Digital birth certificates can be used to verify identities and apply for licences or certificates, such as the Responsible Service of Alcohol.
The state government said the new digital tool could be used for more services over time.
Service NSW and the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages are working with businesses and the community to make it easier to use the digital birth certificates.
It’s not clear when the government will roll out this service to other demographics.
The service is free, compared to ordering a physical birth certificate, which costs $68 or $101 for priority services.
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