How to Apply for a Child’s Passport in Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for a child’s passport in Australia involves several steps to ensure the safety and security of young travellers. Whether you’re preparing for an overseas family holiday or need identification for your child, understanding the process can save time and stress. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application for a child’s Australian passport.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
To apply, the child must be an Australian citizen. Children under 18 are considered minors for passport purposes. If your child was born in Australia, you’ll need to provide their Australian birth certificate and proof of at least one parent’s Australian citizenship at the time of the child’s birth. For children born overseas, you’ll need the child’s citizenship certificate.
Step 2: Complete the Application Online
Visit the Australian Passport Office website (https://www.passports.gov.au/) and begin the application by selecting “Apply or Renew.” The system will ask you questions and generate a personalised application form for your child. Once complete, print the form single-sided and ensure all information is correct.
Only a person with parental responsibility (usually a parent or legal guardian) can apply for the child’s passport. Both parents must give consent unless one has sole parental responsibility.
Step 3: Obtain Parental Consent
For a child’s passport to be issued, written consent is required from all people who have parental responsibility. This usually means both parents. Each must sign section 15 of the application form in front of an authorised witness (e.g. a Justice of the Peace, pharmacist, or police officer). If one parent cannot be located or refuses consent, you may need a court order permitting the passport to be issued without them.
Step 4: Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need to gather original documents, including:
- The child’s original birth certificate
- Proof of Australian citizenship (if not born in Australia)
- Identity documents for the child (if available)
- Proof of identity for each parent or guardian
- Documents showing any change of name (if applicable)
Ensure you also have a passport-quality photo of your child that meets the specific requirements, including neutral expression and correct size. Babies and toddlers can be photographed lying down on a plain background.
Step 5: Find a Guarantor
All child passport applications require a guarantor who:
- Is not related to the child
- Has known the child for at least 12 months (or since birth, if under 12 months old)
- Holds a valid Australian passport (with at least two years’ validity remaining)
The guarantor must complete section 11 of the form and endorse the back of one passport photo.
Step 6: Lodge the Application
Book an appointment at an Australia Post outlet that offers passport services. The child does not need to attend. Bring:
- The completed application form
- Original documents
- Signed passport photo
- Payment for the fee (about AUD 152 for a five-year child passport as of 2025)
Step 7: Wait and Track
Processing usually takes around three weeks. You can track the progress of the application online using the reference number provided at lodgement.
Applying for a child’s passport in Australia is a detailed process, but with the right preparation, it can be completed smoothly. Make sure to allow plenty of time before your intended travel date.
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