Second Class Families: Interstate Recognition of Queer Adoption

Second Class Families: Interstate Recognition of Queer Adoption

US law student Christine Olson has written a scholarly article-Second Class Families: Interstate Recognition of Queer Adoption [PDF]- about how in the US same sex adoptions are recognised in some States, and not recognised in others. She asserts that they should be recognised in every State, and if necessary be recognised through the US Supreme Court.

The article resonated with me, because same sex adoptions are recognised here in WA, ACT and in limited circumstances in Tasmania. A parliamentary committee has recommended that they be allowed in NSW. They are banned in the other States and Territory. Queensland, which has just reviewed its adoption laws specifically excluded same sex adoptions.

Would an adoption in one State or Territory be recognised in another? At some level it is a moot point because of recognition of adoption for the definition of “parent” under the Family Law Act – but there are other laws where it might be a critical point.

Things to Read, Watch & Listen

When Not If the Intended Parents Become Parents

The road to parenthood through surrogacy may not always be smooth, but with the right approach, it’s not a matter of if, but when you’ll welcome your child.

Surrogates & Donors are Extraordinary People

Surrogates and donors make parenthood possible for so many who can’t conceive on their own—whether it’s heterosexual couples, LGBTQ+ parents, single parents, or those with medical conditions. Their generosity is nothing short of life-changing.

Anonymity is Dead in Surrogacy: The Rise of Technology and Its Impact on Donor Privacy

In this video, Stephen dives into one of the 10 lessons he’s learned since his first surrogacy case in 1988: the death of anonymity in surrogacy and donor conception.

Family Law Section Law Council of Australia Award
Member of Queensland law society
Family law Practitioners Association
International Academy of Family Lawyers - IAFL
Mediator Standards Board