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Intercountry Adoption Application (Australia)

The formal process for Australians to adopt a child from an overseas country, coordinated between the Commonwealth Central Authority (Department of Social Services) and the relevant state or territory central authority.

Issuing authority

Department of Social Services (Commonwealth Central Authority) + State/Territory Central Authorities

Official source

intercountryadoption.gov.au

Cost

Varies by state/territory and partner country — STCA fees, home study, legal, and travel costs typically total $15,000–$40,000+

How to apply

  1. Contact your state or territory central authority (STCA) to express interest and confirm eligibility (age, relationship status, health, finances).
  2. Attend mandatory STCA education sessions covering the intercountry adoption process and partner countries.
  3. Submit your formal application or expression of interest to the STCA; undergo health, police, and referee checks, and interviews with an adoption assessor.
  4. Receive STCA approval and have your application forwarded to your chosen country's central authority; join their waiting list.
  5. Accept or decline the overseas placement proposal (child's social and medical information) sent by the overseas authority.
  6. Lodge a visa/citizenship application with the Department of Home Affairs before travel.
  7. Travel to the birth country to complete overseas adoption proceedings.
  8. Return to Australia with the child; complete any required health screenings and birth country post-placement reporting.
  9. Finalise legal proceedings in your state or territory and fulfil ongoing post-adoption reporting requirements.

Related topics

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FormFinder is not affiliated with any Australian government body. Always verify details on official websites. Not legal advice.

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