The Pathfinders National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program will be available in two locations – Murray Bridge and Mount Gambier – in South Australia for the first time, commencing tomorrow.

This marks a significant milestone for the program, as it becomes the sixth state or territory where Pathfinders operates, following successful sign-up days in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory, and the Northern Territory.

This expansion is a crucial step toward ensuring that more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have access to the essential documentation they need to fully participate in society.

CEO of Pathfinders, Alan Brennan, said a birth certificate is more than just a piece of paper.

“It provides a legal identity, unlocking opportunities that many may otherwise be denied,” he said.

“Having a birth certificate provides individuals with a legal identity, which is crucial for many aspects of life, including enrolling in school and sport, applying for a tax file number or bank account, sitting for a driver’s license or registering to vote are just some of the opportunities that a birth certificate provides.”

Thanks to the incredible support of South Australia’s Births, Deaths and Marriages Registry eligible applicants will be able to receive their birth certificates on the same day if all criteria are met. This is a first for the program.

Together, we are making a difference—one birth certificate at a time.