Aussies aged 16–21 in NSW get access to digital birth certificates

Young people in New South Wales aged between 16 and 21 are set to become the first in Australia to access a digital version of their birth certificate.

The optional feature will be available through the Service NSW mobile application, allowing users to keep a secure digital copy of the document for identification purposes. The system has been developed in line with international security standards to ensure the protection of personal information.

To be eligible for the digital certificate, applicants must already hold a NSW driver’s licence or a NSW photo identification card.

Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said the initiative allows young people to store their birth certificate safely on their smartphones rather than relying on a physical document. He noted that the feature would be particularly useful for those living away from home for work or study, providing quick access when applying for licences, certifications or job opportunities.

He added that the digital birth certificate offers a safe and convenient way for people to manage one of their key identity documents while giving them greater control over their personal data.

Service NSW Managing Director Greg Wells explained that using the digital certificate is completely voluntary and that it can be easily downloaded through the Service NSW app.

According to Wells, the feature could also prevent the common issue of losing or damaging important documents. He highlighted that during natural disasters, many people lose vital records such as birth certificates, and a digital copy could help individuals verify their identity quickly when accessing essential services.

From Tuesday, the digital birth certificate will be accepted as proof of identity when applying for various licences and certifications required for employment, including Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA), Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG), and other workforce permits.

In the future, the digital document is expected to support additional transactions with NSW government services.

Service NSW and the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages also plan to collaborate with community and industry groups to explore ways the new digital tool can simplify processes such as registrations and applications for services across workplaces, schools, clubs and sporting organisations.