Local adoption in Victoria is generally for infants through the Infant Adoption Program, however there are situations where other children are adopted through the Adoption and Permanent Care Program. These include children with special needs, stepchildren and children from other countries (Intercountry adoption).
Children placed into permanent care come through child protection services. The Department of Human Services makes the decision for permanent care when a child is unable to return to their home, birth parents or other relatives. Permanent care orders are made by the Children’s Court, where they grant custody and guardianship to a permanent family.Adoption arrangements in Victoria can only be made by the Department of Human Services or an approved adoption agency. Adoption orders are made through the County Court.
The following organisations offer services including, counselling, assessment, placement of children and post-placement supervision. Contact the organisations directly for detailed information about the services they offer.