Adoption Search
Adoption legislation varies across Australia and throughout the world. ARCS can assist you with search and outreach locally, nationally and internationally. Laws vary throughout Australia and overseas as to the rights of adopted people and birth parents to access identifying information and have the choice of search/contact.
In 1994 legislation was passed in Western Australia which allowed adopted persons and birth parents access to identifying information about the other party which has allowed them to initiate contact.
While most people involved in adoption agree that searching, contact and reunion have their place in enabling people to make sense of their separation experience, most find the process at times:
frightening, exciting, frustrating, emotional, hard work, sad,
happy - an emotional roller coaster.
However, feedback received from adopted people, birth parents and adoptive parents supports the benefits of searching even when the contact has not been as hoped for.
Following are some of the common wonderings of those living with adoption and considering search:
We encourage anyone thinking about searching, anyone who has been searched for and the family members of those involved in search and reunion to contact ARCS.
Fees apply to mediation/outreach services however, they are means tested and negotiable. No membership fees apply. No search fees are charged other than costs incurred (for example, phone-calls, certificates).
Our experienced and licensed mediators can offer support and assist you in a sensitive and confidential manner with:
If you would like to read more about search and reunion online we recommend you visit the Post Adoption Resource Centre (PARC) website at www.bensoc.asn.au/parc
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