Adoption

Adoption is a legal process that permanently transfers parental rights and responsibilities from a child’s birth parents to adoptive parents. It provides a stable and loving home for children who cannot live with their birth families.

Types of Adoption

• Local Adoption: Adoption of children born in the same country as the adoptive parents.
• Intercountry Adoption: Adoption of children from other countries.
• Step-Parent Adoption: Adoption by a step-parent to gain legal parental rights.
• Permanent Care: Similar to adoption but does not sever legal ties with birth parents.

The Adoption Process

1. Application: Prospective adoptive parents submit an application to an adoption agency.
2. Assessment: A thorough assessment, including interviews and home visits, is conducted.
3. Approval: Approved applicants are matched with a child.
4. Placement: The child is placed with the adoptive family.
5. Legalization: The adoption is finalized in court.

Support Services

• Counseling for adoptive families and birth parents.
• Parenting workshops and resources.
• Support groups for adoptive families.

When to Seek Help

Consult an adoption agency or legal expert if you:

• Are considering adoption as a prospective parent.
• Need support as a birth parent.
• Have questions about the legal aspects of adoption.

Where to Get Help

• Adoption agencies
• Family and community services
• Legal aid organizations

If you would like this information in an accessible format, please email: betterhealthchannel@dhhs.vic.gov.au