Search Historical Indexes

Experienced Users

Start here, by selecting the type of search you wish to make:

During the search you have the option to purchase a Family History Certificate online for $28.00 (otherwise the standard fee is $37.00).

Step-by-Step Guide

For first-time users, follow the steps below - or print this page:

(A) Overview

(B) Search Historical Index

(C) View search results

(D) Purchase certificates

The Registry's online historical records (indexes) show limited information about records from 1788 to:

All searches on the Registry's website of the Indexes are free.
To ensure privacy and minimise potential for fraud, all Australian Registries are developing consistent years for Family History Indexes and Certificates.
When you view the search results, you can decide if you want to purchase the certificate to obtain all the available information. As the record you have chosen includes the registration number, you receive a discounted fee.
The Registry's website uses the latest high security technology to protect your personal and financial details.
If you don't want to order online, you have the option to complete a Family History application form. This form can be mailed to the Registry, or delivered in person to a Country Courthouse, Government Access Centre or a Registry office. Again, if you supply the registration number on the application form, you receive the discounted fee.

Note: The search function for births and deaths is slightly different to the search function for marriages.

Enter the last name and/or given name of the person you wish to search. (Only first given name and second initial, otherwise the record may not be found.)
For Marriages, enter the bride and/or groom's last name and/or given name. (Only first given name and second initial — too much information and the record may not be found.)
Select the search type (Births or Deaths), or to change to Marriage search screen from Births and Deaths, select “Go to Marriages Search” button on right of screen.
Enter the range of years when the event may have occurred. The date must be entered in four (4) digits and you must enter a date in the 'from' field.
If you know the district in which the birth, death or marriage event was registered, enter the name of the district. This field is optional.
If you are satisfied with the details you have entered, click 'Search Now'. You can also click 'Reset' if you want to clear all the fields you have entered. The system will retrieve matches to the search criteria you have entered

You receive up to 20 search results per page.
The maximum number of records you may retrieve per search is 1000. Any records over this limit will not be displayed.
A search result contains the following information:
- Registration Number
- First name
- Last name
- Year the event was registered
- District (place the event was registered)
- Parent's given names
The first column of the search results contains a unique Registration Number pertaining to that event. This is made up of a code and the year in which the event was registered (not necessarily the year it occurred).
Other columns show the last name and given name of the person you are searching for. If you also specified a father's or mother's given name, the search result will return with that person's father's or mother's name.
In the instance of a Marriage Search, the search results will show the bride and groom's last names and given name(s). Please note the bride's last name is her name prior to marriage.
The next column shows the district where the event was registered (not necessarily where the event actually occurred).
The last column allows you to purchase the Family History Certificate for that Index. If you select this option, you will receive a discounted price of $28.00 (usually $37.00)

You can also choose to purchase Family History Certificates from the search results page.

Select Buy Now beside the correct Index.
The next screen details the certificates you have selected. Please check your order to make sure the correct certificates are displayed.
You now have two options: You can select Purchase to continue to the next screen, or you can go back to the Search Results screen and select other certificates to purchase.
If you decide to continue searching the Historical Indexes, you should either click on the Search Historical Records in the breadcrumb field above or click on Reset on the top right of the Search screen.
If you select Purchase you continue to the Purchase Certificates screen. When you have read the purchase terms, please select either 'Purchase' to continue or 'Back to View Order' which returns you to the previous screen.
If you selected 'Purchase' you are asked to enter your personal details. From this point, you have entered the secure area of the website. You will notice a yellow padlock on the bottom right of the screen and the Thawte logo, which confirms you have entered the secure area. Enter your details, then click on 'Next' to take you to the next screen.
Now enter your credit card details. When completed, click 'Next'.
The next screen confirms the details of your order. Please check the details to see if correct — click:

The next screen completes your order and provides you with a Reference Number which you should keep for any inquiries. 'Print' a copy of this page or view it as a 'PDF' document and save it to your computer. Alternatively, return to the 'Search Results' screen or 'Family History' section.


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