What does a notary public do?

A notary public attests documents and certifies the execution of the documents, prepares and certifies certain legal documents, administers oaths, witnesses affidavits, statutory declarations and other documents, and certifies copies of the documents. A notary public fulfills a role which can be best described as an ‘international justice of the peace’.

If you are not sure whether you require a notary public or a justice of peace (which should be a free service), you should check with whoever has asked you to have your document notarised in the first place. Documents that are intended to be used in countries overseas but are signed, witnessed or certified in Australia generally need to be notarised by a notary public before they will be accepted and legally valid in the intended destination country.

See the related FAQ: What’s the difference between a notary public and a justice of peace?

Other FAQs regarding our notary public services

If you have any other questions regarding our notary public services, please contact our office on 02 9687 8885 to speak with our notary public or visit our other frequently asked questions, also found below:

• What’s a ‘notary public’?
• What does a notary public do?
• What’s the difference between a notary public and a justice of peace?
• What makes you different from other notaries?
• What’s an ‘apostille’?
• What’s the Apostille Convention?
• I’ve been told I need an apostille. Where and how do I get it?
• What’s ‘authentication’?
• Are you recognised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade?
• What’s your experience in providing notary public services?
• Do you provide any services other than notary services?