The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages (RBDM) has transferred to online services after almost 180 years as a paper-based system.
The RBDM has previously accepted certificate applications only by post or in person.
Registrar, Alison Jackson said the move to online applications was made possible, in large part, by the development of software solutions to ensure the secure transfer of identity documents during the process.
“Guarding against identity theft is obviously a high priority these days, and we want the community to have confidence in the new process,” Ms Jackson said.
“All information uploaded to the website is fully encrypted, ensuring the safe receipt and processing of all data and credit card payments.”
She said that on top of the convenience of online applications, especially for people living in remote areas, interstate or overseas or those with disabilities, the new system would result in much quicker processing times.
“The streamlining of the application process will result in a number of efficiencies for the Registry in terms of the resourcing required to manually process mail, scan applications, verify data and process payments,” Ms Jackson said.
“When a similar online service was introduced in South Australia recently, early analysis showed approximately 75 per cent of certificate applications were submitted electronically.”
She said clients could still lodge paper-based applications if they wished.
The RBDM was established in 1841 and is second only to the Land Titles Office (now Landgate) as the oldest State Government office continuously providing service to the community.
The Registry can be accessed online at this PS News link.
