Notary in Australia: Your Complete Guide to Legal Document Services
Table of Contents
What Is a Notary in Australia?
A notary public in Australia is a qualified legal professional authorized to witness signatures, certify documents, and perform notarial acts for use both within and outside the country. Their services are crucial for individuals and businesses engaging in international matters, including overseas transactions, immigration, and legal disputes.
What Services Does a Notary Provide in Australia?
Certifying True Copies
A notary can verify copies of official documents—such as passports, driver licenses, and academic degrees—making them legally acceptable overseas.
Witnessing Signatures
For documents such as contracts, powers of attorney, and affidavits, notaries serve as impartial witnesses to deter fraud and ensure validity.
Affidavits and Statutory Declarations
Notaries can notarize affidavits and statutory declarations, especially when these are used in foreign jurisdictions.
Notarizing for Power of Attorney
When you grant someone legal power on your behalf abroad, notarizing the power of attorney ensures international recognition.
Real Estate & Business Documents
Business owners frequently rely on notaries for real estate contracts, international company documents, and financial authorizations.
Where to Find a Notary in Australia
Notary in Sydney
With a dense concentration of legal professionals, Sydney offers a wide range of notary services for corporate, immigration, and personal use.
Notary in Melbourne
Melbourne notaries frequently handle notarizations for academic credentials, foreign government submissions, and commercial contracts.
Notary in Brisbane, Perth, and Other Cities
Major cities like Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra also provide quick, mobile, and emergency notary options.
How to Choose a Notary Public
- Availability: Choose a notary who offers same-day, mobile, or after-hours services if you need urgent assistance.
- Experience: Ensure they have a background in international document handling.
- Location: Find notaries near courts, city centres, or embassies for convenience.
Can You Use Online Notary Services in Australia?
While online notarization is growing globally, Australian law still requires in-person notarization for most legal documents. However, some private platforms offer video notarization for select document types.
What Is the Difference Between a Notary and a Justice of the Peace?
| Feature | Notary Public | Justice of the Peace (JP) |
|---|---|---|
| Authorized for International Use | Yes | No |
| Requires Legal Qualification | Yes (Usually a Solicitor) | No |
| Handles Business/Overseas Docs | Yes | Limited |
| Fees | Commercial Service | Often Free (Community Service) |
Notary vs Lawyer: Who Do You Need?
- Lawyers represent you in court, draft legal arguments, and provide legal advice.
- Notaries certify and witness documents, especially for international use.
If you're submitting a document overseas or need a certified copy for immigration or property transfer, a notary is your go-to. For court disputes or legal defence, hire a lawyer.
Becoming a Notary in Australia
To become a notary:
- You must be a qualified legal practitioner with years of experience.
- Complete a Notarial Practice Course (e.g., through a university or legal institute).
- Apply to the Supreme Court in your state for official appointment.
Requirements Vary by State:
- NSW: Must be a solicitor with 5+ years' standing
- VIC: Must complete a legal training course and be appointed by the Supreme Court
What Does It Cost to Use a Notary?
| Service | Typical Fee Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Certified true copy | $50 – $100 |
| Witnessing a signature | $75 – $150 |
| Power of attorney notarization | $100 – $250 |
| International contract certification | $150 – $300 |
Always ask for a quote. Some notaries offer bulk rates or fixed-fee packages for multiple documents.
Do You Need an Apostille?
If your document is going to a country in the Hague Apostille Convention, it will need an apostille from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) after notarization.
Common Use Cases:
- Studying abroad
- Marriage or birth certificate submission overseas
- Visa applications
Final Checklist: When to Use a Notary in Australia
Certifying passport or ID copies
Witnessing legal documents for overseas
Authorizing international business transactions
Certifying power of attorney forms
Handling visa, immigration, or embassy documents
Call to Action
Need fast, reliable notary services in Australia? Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, or even remote locations, trusted notaries are just a call away. Choose a certified professional to ensure your documents are valid, recognized, and legally secure.
