Recording life events
BDM preserves the records of key life events which take place in Victoria, This includes: births; deaths; marriages; change of name; adoptions and domestic/caring relationships.
These records are an important method of demonstrating individual identity and family relationships. They are a rich resource for family historians. They help governments and researchers plan services to meet Aboriginal community needs.
Various Government reports, such as the Commissioner for Children and Young People (2016) and the Victorian Law Reform Commission (2013), academic research that includes Proof of life book by Melissa Castan and Paula Gerber (2015) and stakeholder insights confirm the importance of birth registration.
A birth certificate establishes a person’s legal identity. It enables them to access vital services.
BDM needs to ensure its services are culturally sensitive and well-known. This is so that births are consistently registered and birth certificates issued.
We value your feedback
We value your feedback. Please direct this to bdm.koori@justice.vic.gov.au (External link)
Coolamon Strategy 2019-21 contents
- Welcome to the Coolamon Strategy
- The significance of the coolamon
- The importance of BDM services
- Purpose of the Coolamon Strategy 2019-21
- Strong identity, strong spirit in practice
- Supporting our Aboriginal customers
- Removing financial barriers for Aboriginal customers
- Building trust and confidence in BDM services