Family history search

Start your ancestry research with free access to our records of births, marriages and deaths in NSW that date back to 1788. 

Registry offices closed

The fastest and easiest way to apply for your certificate is online and it will be sent by registered mail to your home with an optional priority service.

Alternatively, contact us or visit your nearest Service NSW service centre

Search online

Start searching your ancestry

Use our free online search of births, deaths and marriages certificates dating back to 1788 to trace and build your family tree.
Inside St Mary's Cathedral Sydney

Early church and district codes

Use our list to match the code on a record with the church or district where the birth, marriage or death was recorded.

Help and support

Find out what you can search, what the search results mean, how to order certificates and where to get help.

Family history research guide

You can search our records of births, marriages and deaths in NSW for free. Here you'll find some tips to help you successfully complete your search.

Certificates and searches for an adoption

How to request searches and certificates for an adopted person and their parents.

Registry records

Find detailed descriptions on the information included on certificates issued before and after 1856, and how we kept records.
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