Changes to Victorian laws grant same-sex couples right to adopt
The Adoption Amendment Act comes into effect in Victoria today. (Vic Govt)
Changes to the Victorian government’s adoption laws will come into effect today, allowing couples to adopt regardless of sex or gender identity.
LGBTI couples will be able to adopt under the same circumstances as heterosexual couples and individuals.
Minister for Equality Martin Foley said the changes to the Adoption Amendment Act signified a “historic day” for the state.
“This law brings much needed certainty for many children and their parents who currently live in a legal haze in terms of their relationships with the people they love,” he said.
“While the Turnbull Government has refused to bring a vote for marriage equality in the Federal Parliament, we’re moving to improve recognition for LGBTI couples in Victoria.”
Surrogacy enquiries from overseas will be handed by Intercountry Adoption Victoria (IAV).
Rainbow Families Council co-convenor Felicity Marlow said it will “mean hundreds of Victorian children will be afforded the rights and legal protections they deserve”.
The amendment passed through the state’s parliament in December last year.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
Most viewed in Australia
Australian woman who died after falling from cliff near Bali was Queensland ecologist
PM ‘stunned’ over Pauline Hanson’s attack on his late mother
Police called to One Nation event after clash between passer-by and volunteer
Six years ago, Australia had a $38 billion early super experiment. It didn’t go to plan
