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Get a replacement certificate after a disaster

You can replace a certificate that has been lost, damaged or destroyed in a Queensland declared disaster area. Apply to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages for free.

On this page

In short

You can use this service to:

  • replace a certificate that has been lost, damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster area.

You can submit your completed application form, ID and supporting documents (if needed) online, by post or in person.

Start the online form

What you should know

The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages provides free replacement certificates to eligible customers.

This service is available for up to 3 months after the date of a declared disaster.

Certificates from other Australian states or territories that have been lost, damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster area can also be replaced using this service.

The Registry will replace:

  • birth certificates
  • marriage certificates
  • civil partnership certificates
  • change of name certificates.

Who can use this service

You can apply to replace a certificate if:
Correct.youyou live in a declared disaster area in Queensland
Correct.you are applying within 3 months of the declared disaster
Correct.you you hyouyou have had the certificate before.
Don't use this service if:
Incorrect. you haven't had the certificate before
Instead, use the appropriate service to get a certificate.

How to apply to replace a certificate

Choose how to submit and follow the steps.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to submit 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you will need to provide additional supporting documents to prove your relationship.

See Supporting documents for certificate applications.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Certify your documents

You must get copies of your ID documents certified by an authorised person.

See Getting documents certified.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

Online form

Complete the online form.

Start the online form

Step 4: Upload the certified copies of your ID documents

Upload certified copies of your ID and supporting documents.

Files must be PDF, JPEG or PNG. Maximum file size is 20MB. Do not use special characters in the file name.

Step 5: Receive the certificate

Once your application is approved we will post the certificate to you.

Your application may not be approved if you:

  • don’t meet the rules
  • have not provided the right documents.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to submit 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you will need to provide additional supporting documents to prove your relationship.

See Supporting documents for certificate applications.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Certify your documents

You must get copies of your ID documents certified by an authorised person.

See Getting documents certified.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

Online form

Complete the online form and print.

Start the online form

Step 4: Submit your application

Post to

Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages
PO Box 15188
CITY EAST  QLD  4002

Include your:

  • certified copies of your ID and supporting documents
  • receipt of online submission.

Step 5: Receive the certificate

Once your application is approved we will post the certificate to you.

Your application may not be approved if you:

  • don’t meet the rules
  • have not provided the right documents.

You can submit your application at any Queensland Magistrates Court or QGAP office (except at the Brisbane Magistrates Court).

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to submit 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you will need to provide additional supporting documents to prove your relationship.

See Supporting documents for certificate applications.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Fill in the application form

Online form

Complete the online form and print.

Start the online form

Step 3: Submit the application

Submit your application in person at a Queensland Magistrates Court or QGAP office (except at the Brisbane Magistrates Court).

Bring with you:

  • completed application form
  • original ID and supporting documents.

Step 4: Receive the certificate

Once your application is approved we will post the certificate to you.

Your application may not be approved if you:

  • don’t meet the rules
  • have not provided the right documents.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

You need to submit 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying on behalf of someone else, you will need to provide additional supporting documents to prove your relationship.

See Supporting documents for certificate applications.

Translating documents

If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.

See Translating documents.

Step 2: Fill in the application form

Online form

Complete the online form and print.

Start the online form

Step 3: Submit your application

Submit your application in person at:

Brisbane registry customer service centre
Level 32, 180 Ann Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am–4.30pm.

Closed public holidays.

Bring with you:

  • completed application form
  • original ID and supporting documents.

Step 4: Receive the certificate

Once your application is approved the certificate will be given to you in person.

Your application may not be approved if you:

  • don’t meet the rules
  • have not provided the right documents.

How long it takes

Processing times apply to applications submitted by post or in person at a Queensland Magistrates Court or QGAP office.

Standard application: up to 10 business days

Applications missing any required information or documents will take longer.

How much it costs

Free.

From the Help centre

Find answers to frequently asked questions about services, including:

Getting help in other languages

Interstate and overseas registry offices

Who can apply for certificates

Find more in the Help centre

Managed by: Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages

Last updated:
10 February 2026