Adoption in Victoria is the legal process by which a child becomes a member of a new family. Making the decision to give up a child is never easy. But sometimes situations arise where birth parents feel it is impossible to raise their child. In these situations they voluntarily relinquish all their legal rights and responsibilities in relation to their child, and an adoption order is made by the County Court of Victoria.

When an adoption order is made, the birth parents no longer have any legal rights over the child. The adopted child becomes a full member of the new family, taking their surname and assuming the same rights and privileges as a birth child, including the right of inheritance. A new birth certificate is issued.

The order may include ongoing contact with the child’s birth parents and other relatives. Children’s lives do not suddenly come into being when they’re adopted. They have a past, which cannot be forgotten and which should be acknowledged. Their beginnings are a precious part of who they are and must be accepted, nurtured and valued by their new family. Older children, such as children with special needs or stepchildren, may also be adopted.

Adoption is not the only way of bringing a child into your family. Permanent Care is another. Both options provide children with the care and love they need to grow and prosper.

For more information, please read Adoption and Permanent Care, the difference.

All states and territories in Australia have similar laws. If you live in outside Victoria, you should check the laws in your state or territory. Applications to adopt can only be accepted by families living in Victoria. Adoption arrangements in Victoria can only be made by the Department of Human Services or an approved adoption agency.