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Replace a linking birth certificate

Part of the Record of sex changes topic

Replace an official linking birth certificate if you or your child registered a change of sex in Queensland. Apply to the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages and pay a fee.

In short

You can use this service to:

  • replace a linking birth certificate.

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

Download the PDF form

What you should know

A change of record of sex must already be registered with the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages before you can apply for a certificate.

There are 3 types of official certificates you can order:

  • linking birth certificate shows your new sex and name on the front and your previous details on the back
  • birth certificate with sex shows your new sex and name and does not show any previous details
  • birth certificate without sex shows your new first names and does not show any previous details or details of sex.  This may not be suitable for changing your ID.

Who can use this service

You can apply to replace a linking birth certificate if:
You are one of the following
Correct.you are the person
Correct. you are a parent and your child is under 16
Correct. you are a legal guardian or carer and the child is under 16.
Both of the following must also apply
Correct.the person was born in Queensland
Correct. their record of sex change is already registered in Queensland.
Check who else can apply and the documents they will need to provide.
Don’t use this service if:
Incorrect.the person's identified sex has not been registered
Instead, apply to change your record of sex.
Incorrect.the person was born outside of Queensland and their record of sex change was registered in Queensland
Instead, apply for a replacement recognised details certificate.

How to apply to replace a linking birth certificate

Choose how to submit and follow the steps.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

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

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying for 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 copies of your documents

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

See Getting documents certified.

Step 3: Fill in the application form

PDF form

Print and complete the form by hand. Include payment method on the form.

Download the PDF form

Step 4: Submit your application

Post to

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

Include your:

  • completed application form
  • payment method on the PDF form
  • certified copies of ID and supporting documents.

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:

You will not receive a refund if:

  • your application is refused
  • you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Proof of identity

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

See Proof of identity documents.

Supporting documents

If you are applying for 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

PDF form

Print and complete the form by hand. Include payment method on the form.

Download the PDF 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
  • payment method on the PDF 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.

You can then update your name on ID documents and at organisations.

Your application may not be approved if you:

You will not receive a refund if:

  • your application is refused
  • you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.

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

Urgent application: within 2 business days (extra fee applies)

Applications missing any required information or documents will take longer.

Allow extra time for public holidays and postage.

How much it costs

The fee you pay is for you to submit your application and for the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages to review it.

  • Official linking birth certificate: $56.20
  • Official linking birth certificate (includes 1 linking birth certificate plus 1 birth certificate with sex): $112.40
  • Urgent application: $33.30

Regular postage is free.

You can choose other delivery types:

  • Registered post (recommended): $8.10
  • Express post: $8.55
  • International registered mail: $18.55

From the Help centre

Managed by: Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages