Birth Certificate Program helps Karuah’s Aboriginal residents Karuah, North Arm Cove by NOTA - November 25, 2016 PATHFINDERS: Coordinator Hilton Naden, MP Linda Burney, Manager Joe Craigie. Imagine life without a birth certificate. That is the reality for an estimated 300,000 Australians who have not had their births registered and the half a million who don’t have a birth certificate. Modern Media: Advertise with News Of The Area and you get your ad in 1) in Print, 2) on the News Website (like this ad), and 3) on our Social Media news site. A much more efficient way to advertise. Reach a HUGE audience for a LOW price TODAY! Call us on 02 4983 2134. Or media@newsofthearea.com.au Or CLICK FOR ADVERT QUOTE To help remedy the problem, the not-for-profit organisation Pathfinders is conducting a campaign called the National Aboriginal Birth Certificate Program. Using a grant from the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Pathfinders recently held a registration day in Karuah with a great turnout of mothers and families. “Without a birth certificate, everything is harder,” Program Coordinator Hilton Naden told News Of The Area. “Enrolling in school, getting a driver’s licence, a passport, a job, voting, they’re all a challenge.” “At this stage the Birth Certificate Program is aimed at 0 to 21 year olds, but we do accept applications from older people,” Mr Naden said. Since the program’s inception, approximately 1000 people have gained access to their birth certificates. The program is free to Aboriginal applicants who were born in NSW, QLD, ACT or VIC. Pathfinders continues to lobby for additional funding and to make the process simpler and more affordable for all Australians. Private and corporate donations are also welcome. It is not too late to take advantage of the program. To sign up or to enrol contact Lyn on 02 6788 2123 or email lynettew@pathfinders. By Margie TIERNEY
