Legislative Developments

Abstract

2010 saw the enactment of two laws aimed at protecting and regulating services for children: the Children's Act and the Child Justice Act. Both came into operation in April that year. Since then, no new laws have been passed that focus specifically on children. However, some general laws were amended, and some new Bills were drafted that will affect children either directly or indirectly. Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Act The ability to access birth certificates is central to children's right to a name and nationality, and the procedure for accessing such certificates is outlined in the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1 (the principle Act). At the end of 2010, the Births and Deaths Registration Amendment Act 2 (Amendment Act) was passed and, once it comes into operation, it will amend the principle Act. Some of the amendments will have a direct effect on children and families who need birth or death certificates to access a range of services to which they are entitled constitutionally, such as health care and education services. The most relevant changes introduced by the Amendment Act are: Restrictions on who may register a birth The principle Act says that either the mother or father can register a child's birth. If they are unable to do so, a caregiver, guardian or any other person asked by the parent can register