In an Australian first, people born in NSW who are aged 16 to 21 now have the option to set up a Digital Birth Certificate, making it easier to access their identification.
The new digital document is available statewide, has been designed to international security standards and can be set up via the Service NSW app. This opt-in Digital Birth Certificate provides a secure way to access this essential document and will allow greater control over information being shared.
The first group of people to be eligible to apply are 16 to 21-year-olds born in NSW, who hold a NSW photo card or driver licence.
From today, young adults will be able to use their Digital Birth Certificate to verify their identity and apply for a range of licences and certifications needed to start a job including Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA), Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG), as well as other workforce licences.
Over time, the Digital Birth Certificate will allow for wider integrated transactions to improve the way people interact with NSW Government services and give people greater control over what information they share.
Service NSW and the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages are engaging community and industry leaders to work with businesses, schools, clubs and sporting organisations, to look at opportunities to make it easier to register and apply for the services people need using the new digital tool.
For more information or to opt in, please visit the Service NSW website.
Minister for Customer Services and Digital Government, Jihad Dib said:
"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!
"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.
"Under the Minns Labor Government we have taken this from pilot to reality as we continue to improve the way people manage their identity online and rollout the latest, secure digital identity option."
Service NSW, Managing Director, Greg Wells said:
"The Digital Birth Certificate is completely optional and can be easily downloaded on the Service NSW app.
"Losing birth certificates will be a thing of the past, with the Service NSW app allowing customers to store their certificates in one place.
"During natural disasters when people need documents like these the most, we often help people whose birth certificates and other documents have been destroyed; a digital version provides a solution for those who need to verify their identity quickly to access services."
