The Surrogacy Process in Australia is similar in all States, and applies to all arrangements regardless of how the parties know each other or their relationship with each other. Before proceeding past step one, you should find out if you qualify for surrogacy.

If you are new to surrogacy, you can read about how to find a surrogate, or how to become a surrogate yourself. You can also download the free Surrogacy Handbook which explains the processes and options. Have you thought about joining Surrogacy Australia’s Support Service? Read this first.

Looking for a surrogate and not sure where to start? We Need a Surrogate – What’s Next?  If you’re interested in timelines and costs, this chart was developed by an intended parent to help you plan it out.

These steps are generally followed for surrogacy arrangements facilitated by a clinic. For traditional surrogacy arrangements not using a clinic, parties need to obtain counselling and legal advice prior to conception. Note that the laws vary from State to State – you can find more information about  State laws here.

While the legal requirements are similar in each state, each clinic has its own policies and processes for approval. In Victoria, approval is provided by the Patient Review Panel, and in Western Australia, it is the Reproductive Technology Council.

If you would like to be a surrogate, you might like to know if you meet the criteria to carry a baby for someone else. You can also book in for a free Future Surrogate Consult with me to help you make the decision.

Make sure you download the free Surrogacy Handbook, which outlines the process and criteria for surrogacy in Australia. And of course, listen to the Surrogacy Podcast, which shares stories from surrogates and intended parents from around Australia.

Sarah has published a book, More Than Just a Baby: A Guide to Surrogacy for Intended Parents and Surrogates, which you can purchase in paperback or electronic versions.

Some intended parents may wish to explore surrogacy options overseas, which should be done with the benefit of independent legal advice.

You can find more information in the free Surrogacy Handbook, reading articles in the Blog, by listening to more episodes of the Surrogacy Podcast. You can also book in for a consult with me below, and check out the legal services I provide.