Getting Your Documents Certified: Everything You Need to Know

At some point, you’ll likely need to have your documents certified. Whether it’s for legal, financial, or personal reasons. Here’s a quick guide on who can certify your documents, ensuring that they are accepted by the relevant authorities.

What is a Certified Copy?

A certified copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been verified by an authorised person. The certifier must physically see both the original and the copy and confirm that the copy is a true representation of the original. Certification adds credibility, ensuring the copy can be trusted for official purposes.

Who Can Certify Your Documents?

The following professionals are authorised to certify your documents:

• Accountants: Must be Registered Tax Agents or members of a recognised professional accounting body.
• Legal Practitioners: Includes barristers, solicitors, and anyone listed on the roll of the Supreme Court or High Court.
• Police Officers: Any serving police officer can assist.
• Medical Practitioners: Registered doctors in Australia are authorised to certify documents.
• Justice of the Peace (JP): Must have a valid registration number in their state.
• School Principals: Principals of Australian primary, secondary, or high schools.
• Postal Managers: Managers at Australia Post offices.
• Ministers of Religion: Must be registered under the Marriage Act 1961.

If you’re unsure whether a particular professional qualifies, check the requirements of the organisation requesting the certified documents.

How to Get Your Documents Certified

To ensure certification is done correctly, follow these steps:

1. Present Both the Original and Copy
   The certifier must see the original document and the copy to confirm they match.
2. Write the Certifier’s Statement
   The certifier must write on the copy:
   • “I certify this is a true copy of the original document.”
3. For multi-page documents, they should note:
   • “I certify this and the following [number of pages] pages to be a true copy of the original document,” on the first page.
   • Initial each subsequent page.
4. Add Required Details
   The certifier must include the following on the certified copy:
   • Full name
   • Occupation or qualification that authorises them to certify
   • Contact details (address and phone number)
   • Signature and date
   • Registration number, if applicable (e.g., for JPs).
5. Double-Check Accuracy
   Ensure all details are clear and accurate to avoid rejection by the organisation requesting the documents.

Why Does Certification Matter?

Certification ensures that important documents are reliable and authentic. Without proper certification, organisations may reject your documents, causing delays in processes such as applications, legal filings, or identity verifications.

Need Help?

If you’re ever unsure about the certification process, who can certify your documents, or you’d just like a little guidance, Coastal Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today, and we’ll make the process as smooth as possible for you.

DISCLAIMER:
The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, consult your legal representative or book a consultation with Coastal Lawyers.