We are responsible for making sure that Australia meets its obligations under the Hague Convention (number 33) on Protection of Children and Co-operation in respect of Intercountry Adoption available on the Hague Conference on Private International Law website.
Our department does not process adoption applications. This is the role of the state and territory central authorities.
State and territory central authorities assess the eligibility and suitability of people wanting to adopt a child from overseas against criteria outlined in their own legislation. They also manage the adoption application process.
Australia has arrangements with a number of countries.
Latest news
National Intercountry Adoption Advisory Group Meeting - 29 April 2013
The National Intercountry Adoption Advisory Group met on 29 April 2013 in Canberra. A copy of the meeting communique is available on the National Intercountry Adoption Advisory Group page.
Delegation visit - Thailand, India and China - June 2013
The Attorney-General’s Department will travel to Thailand, India and China from 6 to 15 June 2013 to meet with intercountry adoption authorities and agencies in each country to discuss the operation of Australia’s intercountry adoption programs.
The delegation will also meet with the Australian embassies or consulates in each country to discuss immigration and citizenship matters and the management of intercountry adoption applications, where relevant.
The visits will provide the opportunity to strengthen our working relationships with authorities in the respective partner countries.
Appointments to the National Intercountry Adoption Advisory Group
Information on new members is available on the National Intercountry Adoption Advisory Group page.