New self-identification process for amending sex on a birth certificate has been introduced

Prior to 15 June 2023, if you wanted to change your gender or the sex on your birth certificate was wrong, you would have to apply to the Family Court for a declaration that the sex on your birth certificate should be changed.

The Births, Deaths, Marriages and Relationships Registration Act 2021 introduced a new self-identification process that came into force on 15 June 2023.

This process replaces the previous Family Court application process. Applicants will no longer need to apply to the Family Court or prove that they have undertaken medical treatment to align their registered sex with their gender. Instead, people will apply directly to the Registrar-General of Births, Deaths and Marriages by filling out and submitting a statutory declaration(external link).

If your application was under consideration when the change happened, you will be able to finish the process through the Family Court.

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