Changing gender on birth certificate…

The Government has announced a proposal to make it easier for transgender people to change their gender on their birth certificate.  Once passed into law this will enable anyone to self-identify their gender on their birth certificate by making a Statutory Declaration.

Currently those who want to change their gender need to go to the Family Court and provide medical evidence of the change of gender before a change can be approved. 

The proposed changes also include free advice and support for people going through this process.

It is also proposed to use more inclusive and affirming language regarding transgender people in Court.

The Government is also proposing to provide legal aid for the process, if financial hardship circumstances apply. 

We will keep an eye on the proposals as they move towards becoming the law and provide updates as matters progress.

Please note that Rainey Collins is not contracted to provide Legal Aid, other than in the Treaty of Waitangi area.  We therefore are unable to take on any Civil or Family Legal Aid work. If you require Legal Aid in those areas, you can search the list of Legal Aid lawyers on the Ministry of Justice website.