There are a number of personal documents that you may need to replace if they are lost or destroyed.

Justice Connect's Get ePrepared resource can help you learn how to store electronic copies of your important documents to prevent their complete loss or destruction.

Birth, death, marriage and change of name certificates

Replacement certificates can be ordered from the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages online or by calling 131 882.

Medicare cards

Replacement medicare cards can be ordered from your medicare online account, through MyGov, through the general inquiries line 132 011, by post (with proof of identity) or by visiting your local Medicare office (with proof of identity). For more information about the options, see the Department of Human Services website.

Driver’s licence

To replace your South Australian driver's licence, the process will differ depending on whether a photograph is required. If you know your licence number and do not need a new photograph, a replacement can be ordered online through your mySAGOV account. If you cannot apply online, then you should attend a service centre, complete an application for replacement driver's licence form and provide proof of your identity. If you are unable to attend a service centre, you may need to request a licence photo kit. For more information, call 13 10 84 or visit the South Australian Government website.

Insurance documents

It is not necessary to have all your documents on hand in order to initiate an insurance claim as many insurance companies keep records electronically. The Insurance Council of Australia has a disaster hotline (call 1800 734 621) to help people who are unsure which insurer they are with and for general questions about the claims process. Most insurance companies have 24-hour call centres. For more information, visit the Insurance Council of Australia's disaster response website.

Tenancy agreement

A tenancy agreement continues even if the document recording the agreement has been destroyed. Landlords are required to keep a copy of these agreements for up to 2 years from the date of termination. If their copy has also been destroyed, a new document can be created to record the agreement.