Adopting a child
Information for people in NSW wanting to adopt a child to help them understand the different types of adoption, how to adopt and access support services.
Adoption is a legal process where the legal rights and responsibilities for a child are transferred from a child’s parents to the adoptive parents.
All adoptions in NSW are done under the principle of open adoption. This means that the importance of a child maintaining relationships with their parents, extended families, heritage and culture is recognised.
The adoption process can be long and involved. This is to make sure the adoption is right for both the child and the adoptive family.
You can find information on:
- deciding to adopt and who can adopt
- understanding the adoption process and different types of adoption
- how to adopt a child
- the costs involved when adopting
- getting financial help for children and families
- getting support before and after adopting a child.