Title Search Terminology Across Australian States and Territories

Property-title terminology can be confusing because similar records have different names around Australia. Understanding the local language helps you identify the right record and recognise references to related plans and instruments.

How title-search terminology differs around Australia

Australia does not use one identical product name in every jurisdiction. Queensland commonly refers to a current title search; NSW uses title-search and folio terminology; Victoria returns a Register Search Statement; Western Australia uses a Record of Certificate of Title; South Australia uses Register Search terminology; Tasmania distinguishes folio text from the folio plan; and the ACT and Northern Territory maintain their own land-title registers.

Common terms to recognise

Terms you may encounter include title, folio, Certificate of Title, Register Search Statement, Record of Certificate of Title, Register Search, folio text, folio plan, deposited plan, survey plan, dealing, instrument and encumbrance. Their precise use should be checked in the relevant jurisdiction.

Do not rely on a generic product label

A website or person may use a familiar phrase such as “certificate of title” as a general description even where the registry's current product has another name. Check what document will actually be supplied.

Title, plan and instrument are not interchangeable

The title records the registered land record and interests; a registered plan describes the legal parcel; and a dealing or instrument may contain the detailed terms of an interest referenced on the title.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the same type of record have different names?

Each jurisdiction operates its own land-title system and products.

What is a dealing or instrument?

It is a registered document associated with a title, such as a transfer, mortgage, easement or other interest, depending on the jurisdiction.

A title search is not a complete due-diligence report and does not establish a physical boundary on the ground. Separate planning, council, survey or legal enquiries may be needed depending on your purpose.

Related guide

For the broader search process, see Land Title Searches in Australia: A State-by-State Guide.

Official sources

Titles Queensland · NSW Land Registry Services · Land.Vic · Landgate · Land Services SA · Service Tasmania · Access Canberra · Northern Territory Land Titles Office. Last reviewed: 8 September 2026.

A title search reports information recorded in the relevant land-title register at the time represented by the search. Later dealings may change the register.

Title Now is an independent property-document ordering service. It is not a government department, land registry, law firm, conveyancing practice or surveying business. This information is general and does not constitute legal, conveyancing, planning or surveying advice.