Petition · Ministry of Justice

Require mothers to list the father (if known) on birth certificate if safe to do

Closed 53 signatures

What the petition asks

Require mothers to name the father on the birth certificate, if known and safe to do so, ensuring equal parental rights and responsibilities. Fathers with no criminal convictions or history of domestic violence should be granted equal parental rights from birth including 50/50 contact
Many fathers face unfair barriers to seeing their child, despite having done nothing wrong. The current system forces them into costly legal battles and leaves children without equal access to both parents. Equal rights from birth - when it is a requirement to list the father on a birth certificate if known and safe - can support children’s wellbeing, reduce conflict, and ensures parents are treated fairly and consistently.

Timeline

18 Dec 2025 Petition opened for signatures
18 Jun 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 53
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 18 Dec 2025
Closed 18 Jun 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 19 Aug 2026.