Current Intercountry Adoption Programs
Information about Australia's intercountry adoption program with specific countries are outlined below:
Open programs are those currently accepting applications. Suspended programs are not currently accepting applications but may re-open in the future.
The Australian Attorney-General’s Department makes every effort to update this information as regularly as possible. Please contact your State and Territory Central Authority for current information about all intercountry adoption programs.
Intercountry adoption support organisations are also a valuable resource in each State and Territory and can provide program-specific information and support.
Closed Programs
Historically, Australia has entered into some intercountry adoption programs which have then closed for a number of reasons. Countries with whom adoption programs have closed include Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico and Romania. Currently, applications cannot be sent to these countries.
Approximate Waiting Times
The information provided on approximate waiting times refers to the period between the sending of an adoption application to an overseas program and the receiving of an allocation. Timeframes are based on current practice and are subject to change. Factors influencing waiting times include the number of children needing families, the number of adoption applications received by the overseas country and resources. These factors are outside the control of the Australian authorities. Families considering adoption need to be conscious of the uncertainty of these waiting periods.
Estimated overseas adoption fees and costs
Adoption costs are subject to change, and are affected by a wide range of factors. Countries estimate their costs in US dollars which is why the figures are quoted in this way.