Early stillborns now to be registered

The Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1998 (WA) specifies that for a still-born baby to be legally registered, it must have reached the age of 20 weeks, or weigh 400 grams if the duration of the pregnancy cannot be established.

Attorney General Michael Mischin said he had asked the registrar to allow parents who lost a child during early pregnancy to be given the opportunity to apply for a "recognition of loss" certificate.

"The registry has now amended their procedures so that if eligible parents choose to do so, they may apply for a certificate which acknowledges their baby's life," he said.

"I hope this new measure will offer a degree of support and comfort to those who have suffered early pregnancy loss."

Mr Mischin said there had been consultation between WA and interstate registries and stakeholders including the Western Australian branch of Stillbirth and Newborn Death Support.

The certificates will be available in two designs.

For more information visit dotag.wa.gov.au.