Families welcoming new arrivals and long-time fans can celebrate their birthday milestone alongside Australia’s favourite koala, Blinky Bill, who turns 90 this year.
The NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages has released a new commemorative birth certificate featuring the iconic character, created by Dorothy Wall in 1933.
Whether you’re in your 90s and applying for a copy of your birth certificate or welcoming a newborn, people across NSW can now order the new certificate design featuring the original Aussie larrikin.
The cheeky koala continues to delight generations in books and on the screen with his love for adventure and curiosity.
The commemorative birth certificate features the lovable koala dressed in red overalls, next to his best friend and adopted sister Nutsy, while their mum Mrs Koala takes centre stage as she tries to keep them out of trouble.
The Registry’s first commemorative certificate capturing Blinky Bill was released in 2016 and has been ordered by more than 7000 people, proving Wall’s stories continue to live on in the hearts of Australians.
In a celebration of Australia’s storytelling history, 3 new commemorative birth certificates featuring the artwork of Australian author and illustrator May Gibbs are also available, showing Boronia Baby, Gumnut Baby, and Flora and Fauna.
Commemorative birth certificates can be purchased at any time.
Commemorative birth certificates do not hold legal status and sit alongside official birth certificates.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib said:
“When we welcome a new family member into our lives, the very first piece of identification they get is their birth certificate. These certificates are both important and sentimental, so it is essential they are kept safe and secure.
“When it comes to a commemorative birth certificate, families can pick their favourite design to celebrate their newest bundle of joy or to celebrate a milestone birthday.
“In response to customer demand we have more than 20 different designs which means there is something for everyone from Blinky Bill through to your favourite NRL team – and we have even more certificate designs in the pipeline.”
NSW Registrar Theresa Fairman said:
“This is an exciting chance to celebrate 90 years of one of our nation’s most iconic characters and these new certificates are un-bear-ably cute.
“From new mums and fans of the original Aussie larrikin to those celebrating a milestone birthday, the Blinky Bill commemorative birth certificate celebrates a generation of love.
“I also expect the new May Gibbs’ Boronia Baby, Gumnut Babies and Flora and Fauna designs to be in hot demand, with our range of designs providing something for everyone.”