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How to Navigate Getting Identification Documents

Accessing housing, Centrelink, healthcare, and employment all starts with having the right identification — but figuring out what you need and where to get it can often feel frustrating and overwhelming.

This guide will take you step by step through what to do. Start at Step 1 and work your way through — each step helps unlock the next.

4 steps · Start at Step 1 · Each step unlocks the next
Step 01

Birth Certificate

Your most important identity document

Your birth certificate is your most important identity document. You will need this before you can get most other forms of ID.

Where to get it

Born in Western Australia?

Apply through the WA Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

Birth Registration and Certificates — WA Government

Born in another state or country?

Apply through the official registry in that location. Some regional courthouses and other areas can print a birth certificate immediately with the relevant supporting documentation.

What you'll need

  • Your full name at birth
  • Date of birth
  • Place of birth
  • Parent details (if known)

Tip

If you don't have all the details, don't worry. A support service or community organisation can help you apply.

Step 02

Photo Identification

Proves who you are in everyday situations

Photo ID proves who you are in everyday situations. You will need this for services, banking, and housing.

Where to go

Visit the Department of Transport WA

Your options are a WA Photo Card or a Learner / Driver's Licence.

Transport — WA Government

What you'll need

  • Birth certificate
  • Proof of address (if you have one)

Tip

If you don't have proof of address, ask a support service what you can use instead.

Step 03

Income Support

Set up Centrelink and get your CRN

A CRN (Customer Reference Number) connects you to Centrelink. This allows you to apply for income support and access services.

Where to start

Go to Centrelink via Services Australia

Visit the Centrelink website or go to your nearest Services Australia office to get started.

Centrelink — Services Australia

What you'll need

  • Your ID (birth certificate + photo ID)
  • Contact details
  • Bank details (if you have them)

What happens next

  • You will be given a CRN (Customer Reference Number)
  • You can apply for payments (JobSeeker, Disability Support, etc.)
Step 04

Keep Your Documents Safe

Protect what you've worked to get

Once you have your documents, it's important to keep them safe and easy to access. If you lose your documents, you will still have a copy.

What to do

Go to your local library or ask a support service for help

Scan or take photos of your birth certificate, photo ID, and Centrelink details.

Save them somewhere secure

A USB drive or a secure email / cloud account both work well. You can take your USB anywhere and a service provider can help you access them.

Tip

You are taking control of your life. By having your documents ready and safe, you can access services, make decisions, and move forward with confidence. Empower yourself to help yourself.

You are taking control of your life.

By having your documents ready and safe, you can access services, make decisions, and move forward with confidence. Empower yourself to help yourself.

Need help?

You Don't Have to Do This Alone

If you need support with any of these steps, we're here to help.

Email UsReferral Form

Did you know? Life Connect Navigator is a free community resource.

Our Life Connect Navigator service is available at no cost to you. We can support you in person to work through guides like this one, help you navigate NDIS and Centrelink services, and connect you with the right people — all as a free community resource.

Learn about Life Connect Navigator

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