Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Do you have to be infertile to adopt?
    No, there is no priority given to those who are infertile.
  • Can you have biological children and adopt?
    Yes, around 1 in 3 families who adopt in WA have biological children.
  • Do you have to be married?
    No, not under WA law you can be in a defacto relationship for at least three years. However for Intercountry adoption each country have their own criteria and stipulated marriage length. Ethiopia is the only programme that accepts couples in defacto relationships.
  • Can singles adopt?
    Yes, not all programmes accept singles and some have a quotas.
  • Do you have to earn a large income?
    No. You need to demonstrate that you are able to save and can manage your own income effectively.
  • Do you have to own your own home?
    No, you can be renting or mortgaging. However your home needs to child safe at placement.
  • What is the cost of Intercountry Adoption?
    Depending on the programme you choose total costs including travel ranges from $10,000 to $30,000.
  • What is the average length of an adoption process?
    Generally the average length is between 2 - 4 years from beginning the process to arriving home with a child. There are however many variables: allocation times, travel times change constantly.
  • How do I start?
    The only agency that processes adoption applicants in WA is Department for Community Development. You must go to an information seminar to begin. DCPlink again
  • How many Intercountry Adoptions (ICA) does WA do annually?
    Over the last 3 financial years between 20 and 35 children have been placed with families through Intercountry adoption in WA. For statistics go to Australian Institute of Health and Welfare