Intercountry adoption legislation
There are many laws impacting the delivery of intercountry adoption in Australia.
About intercountry adoption legislation
Intercountry adoption in Australia is governed by Commonwealth family and immigration legislation and specific state and territory laws.
The Family Law Act 1975 and its regulations implement the Hague Convention. Australian states and territories also have similar laws relating to intercountry adoption.
Commonwealth laws
Family laws
- Family Law Act 1975
- Family Law (Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption) Regulations 1998)
- Family Law (Bilateral Arrangements—Intercountry Adoption) Regulations 2023
- Family Law (Bilateral Arrangements—Intercountry Adoption) (Repeals and Consequential Amendments) Regulations 2023
Immigration laws
- Australian Citizenship Amendment (Intercountry Adoption) Act 2015
- Australian Citizenship Act 2007
- Immigration (Guardianship of Children) Act 1946
- Migration Act 1958
- Migration Regulations 1994
State and territory laws
State and territory laws also affect intercountry adoption. These laws are listed by state/territory below.
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DSS2389 | Permalink: www.dss.gov.au/node/2389