Access to adoption records
Part of the Adoption records topic
Find out how to apply to access information on adoption records in Queensland.
On this page
In short
You can use this service to apply for:
- a pre-adoption entry in the birth record
- a post-adoption certificate
- a birth parent's birth certificate
- information about birth parents' marriage or death.
You must submit your completed application form, ID and supporting documents by post or in person.
See How to apply for adoption entry information for the full application process.
What you should know
You need authorisation from the agency that handled the adoption.
Contact Adoption Services about Queensland adoptions. For other adoptions, contact that state, territory or country where it was processed.
The authorisation document will tell the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages what adoption information can be provided. We will let you know what other information or certificates you may be able to apply for.
Certificates ordered through this service are not for identification purposes. They are stamped ‘Not to be used for official purpose’.
You may also ask for approval to search for other information on the birth parents.
Who can use this service
You can apply for this service if you:
- are the adopted person
- are the birth parent
- are an eligible relative, and
- have authorisation from the agency that handled the adoption.
Don't use this service if:
- you were adopted and need your birth certificate for official purposes
Instead, get a birth certificate. - the adoption took place outside of Australia
Instead, contact the registry office in that country.
How to apply for adoption entry information
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
You need to provide an authorisation document from the agency that handled the adoption.
Translating documents
If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.
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.
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
- certified copies of ID and supporting documents.
Step 5: Get confirmation you have access
Your application will be reviewed and if approved, we will advise you of the total amount of your order and how to pay.
Your application may not be approved if:
- you don’t meet the rules
- you do not include the right documents.
Step 6: Pay the fee
You will need to pay the fee when we contact you.
See Payment options.
You will not receive a refund if:
- your application is refused
- you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.
Step 7: Receive your certificate or letter
We will post out the certificate(s) and/or search results to you.
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 gather 3 forms of proof of identification (ID) documents including proof of home address.
See Proof of identity documents.
Supporting documents
You need to provide an authorisation document from the agency that handled the adoption.
Translating documents
If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.
You can bring your original documents with your when submitting in person.
Step 2: Fill in the application form
PDF form
Print and complete the form by hand.
Step 3: Submit your 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: Get confirmation you have access
Your application will be reviewed and if approved, we will advise you of the total amount of your order and how to pay.
Your application may not be approved if:
- you don’t meet the rules
- you do not include the right documents.
Step 5: Pay the fee
You will need to pay the fee when we contact you.
See Payment options.
You will not receive a refund if:
- your application is refused
- you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.
Step 6: Receive your certificate or letter
We will post out the certificate(s) and/or search results to you.
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
You need to provide an authorisation document from the agency that handled the adoption.
Translating documents
If your documents are not in English, you need to get them translated.
You can bring your original documents with your when submitting in person.
Step 2: Fill in the application form
PDF form
Print and complete the form by hand.
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: Get confirmation you have access
Your application will be reviewed and if approved, we will advise you of the total amount of your order and how to pay.
Your application may not be approved if:
- you don’t meet the rules
- you do not include the right documents.
Step 5: Pay the fee
You will need to pay the fee when we contact you.
See Payment options.
You will not receive a refund if:
- your application is refused
- you cancel the application after we have reviewed it.
Step 6: Receive your certificate or letter
We will post out the certificate(s) and/or search results to you.
How long it takes
Processing times start from the date we receive your application.
We will contact you: within 15 business days
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.
- Pre-adoption birth certificate—original birth record before adoption: $58.10
- Post-adoption birth certificate—current birth records: $58.10
- Search fee (under 1 name for each event): $28.95
- Each additional name searched (for each event): $28.95
Regular postage is free.
You can choose other delivery types:
- Registered post (recommended): $8.10
- Express post: $8.55
- International registered mail: $21.55