Restricted (recent) information
In regard to information that is still subject to its restriction period, an applicant can apply for:
- A legal certificate – such as a birth certificate that can be used for proof of identity purposes
- Information that cannot be used for proof of identity purposes such as commemorative certificates
- Information from the registers – such as data for research.
For more information about access to data, contact us using our Contact us form and include ‘data request’ in your message.
An application for a legal or commemorative certificate must include:
- All relevant documentation to support the application
- Adequate reason for access to the information
- Applicant’s proof of identity
- If you are applying for another person’s certificate, you must also provide:
- Permission (known as third party authority) from the other person to access their certificate
- The other person’s proof of identity
- The appropriate fee. Refer to Fees and Charges.
To apply, visit the relevant page on BDM’s website, which also discusses the documentation required to make the application. The most common applications are to get a birth certificate, marriage certificate or death certificate. Data customers/researchers should visit Research and data services.
Unrestricted (historical) information
This information is also known as family history information. Access this information by visiting Search your family history and paying the relevant fee.