A Notary in this  is usually appointed by the Supreme Court in the relevant state.

The function of a Notary is to draw up and authenticate documents, administer oaths, attest and witness execution of documents, verify copies of documents and noting bills of exchange.

Whilst most of these functions can be carried out by a Solicitor or Justice of the Peace, these are not recognised overseas and the majority of overseas countries will only recognise a Notary Public.

In certain circumstances, the Notary’s signature must be verified or legalised by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or the Embassy or Consulate of the country in which the document is to be used.

There is a fee charged by the Notary for notarizing documents as well as by the Consul or other legal representative and by the Department of Foreign Affairs.

If a signature is to be notarized, the person signing should be able to identify themselves and that form of identification should contain both a photograph and signature, such as a drivers license or passport.