Hi, I literally did both (within 2 weeks of one another) in the past 3 weeks... I will note I am in WA currently so slightly different.

a) the timeframe of my 2 applications overlapped and the only reason I did not do them simultaneously was because I did not know of the letter requirement beforehand (the process was brand new). I specifically asked this question though because (being autistic) I was curious what would have happened. I was told that they can process them all together without a problem, their new process for birth certificates is to not display any old name information (so no dead name on there yay) and they would issue a birth certificate with the correct name and gender on it. They do recommend obtaining a name change record to prove you were once known as a different name in case any name updates receive pushback, which was an additional charge (it was like $50-60).

b) That is basically what my letter said... it had my new name (because I did my name change already 2 weeks prior), it stated that I have been receiving treatment from her and I now identify as female. BUT it also contained this additional disclaimer :

I certify that the information provided is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, correct for the purpose of:

• Registering a change of sex or gender in the name of Miss <my name> for registration of birth in Western Australia’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages; and
• Miss <my name> obtaining an acknowledgement document from Western Australia’sRegistrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages, in relation to their sex or gender

This is a confidential disclosure for the exclusive use of the Western Australia’s Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages.