Country Programs
Australia currently has an active intercountry adoption arrangement with 13 countries, including:
- Bulgaria
- Chile
- China
- Colombia
- Hong Kong
- India
- Latvia
- Poland
- South Africa
- South Korea
- Sri Lanka
- Taiwan
- Thailand
For more information on Australia’s intercountry adoption programs, including eligibility criteria and post adoption support, visit the Intercountry Adoption Australia website.
Reactivation of the India-Australia intercountry adoption program
Updated 4 July 2024
Australia began the reactivation of the India-Australia intercountry adoption program using a careful, staged approach
in April 2019.
During the initial phase, Australia's two participating jurisdictions – Queensland (Qld) and Northern Territory (NT) – have been assessing a small number of people and forwarding files of suitable applicants to the Indian adoption authority for consideration and action.
On 26 June 2024 the NT suspended its participation in the program reactivation until further notice.
The remaining state and territory central authorities (STCAs) including the NT, will continue to monitor processes and be guided by key learnings before determining their future involvement.
This staged approach is allowing all Australian federal, state and territory governments to closely monitor the initial cases and build an understanding of the new safeguards and standards introduced in India’s revised intercountry adoption program.
For the reactivation to operate as smoothly as possible, Australia must take the necessary time to complete all aspects of this important first stage.
For further information or to express interest in the India program, people living in Qld can contact the Qld central authority:
- The Department of Child Safety, Seniors and Disability Services by phoning either 07 3097 5100 or 1800 647 983 (Qld only) or by emailing ads@cyjma.qld.gov.au
Programs currently on hold
The Philippines
The Philippines program is still on hold. In 2018, the Philippines Government advised that they will not be accepting adoption applications from Australia. This also includes for the adoption of a relative or known child.
We are discussing options with the Philippines Government to resolve the program hold.
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