Step Parent Adoption: What Australian Fathers Need to Know

As a father, you may be considering adopting your partner's child. Step-parent adoption is a legal process that allows you to become the permanent adoptive parent of your partner's child. It's a significant decision that comes with both symbolic and legal implications.

The Adoption Process in Queensland

In Queensland, the Adoption Act 2009 outlines the laws and requirements around adoption. All adoptions, including step-parent adoptions, must be organized through Adoption Services Queensland (ASQ) in the Department of Child Safety, Youth and Women (DCSYW). Privately arranged adoptions are illegal in Queensland.

The step-parent adoption process involves several key steps:

  • Obtain permission from the Family Court of Australia to apply for step-parent adoption. Both the step-parent (you) and the birth parent must make this application.
  • If the Family Court approves your application, register your interest to adopt your step-child with the ASQ.
  • The ASQ will assess your suitability based on various criteria and provide a report to the Children's Court.
  • The Children's Court will then determine whether the adoption is successful and issue a final adoption order.

Both parents must consent to the adoption before the Court will make an adoption order. However, there are steps to follow in circumstances where one parent is solely responsible for the child and/or when the other parent is not known and/or cannot be found.

Eligibility Criteria for Step-Parent Adoption

To be eligible to adopt your step-child in Queensland, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You are an adult.
  • You are a resident in Queensland.
  • You are an Australian citizen.
  • You have lived with the child and your partner (birth parent) for a minimum of three years.
  • You have obtained permission from the Family Court of Australia to commence adoption proceedings.
  • The child is at least five years old and not more than 17 years old.
Important: The process of step-parent adoption is not to be taken lightly. It is a significant legal matter that requires careful consideration and guidance. If you are considering adopting your step-child, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced family law expert who can help you navigate the process and ensure the best outcomes for your family.

At Quinn Family Law, our team of family law experts can provide you with the support and guidance you need to successfully navigate the step-parent adoption process in Queensland. Book a free 60-minute initial consultation to get started.

Expert Family Lawyers Across Australia

🏛️ DadAssist Melbourne Family Lawyers

Serving: Melbourne, Victoria

  • Federal Circuit Court Melbourne: 305 William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
  • Family Court of Australia Melbourne: 305 William Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

⚖️ DadAssist Sydney Mens Divorce Lawyers

Serving: Sydney, New South Wales

  • Federal Circuit Court Sydney: Law Courts Building, Queens Square, Sydney NSW 2000
  • Family Court of Australia Sydney: Law Courts Building, Queens Square, Sydney NSW 2000

🏛️ DadAssist Brisbane Family Law Specialists

Serving: Brisbane, Queensland

  • Federal Circuit Court Brisbane: 119 North Quay, Brisbane QLD 4000
  • Family Court of Australia Brisbane: 119 North Quay, Brisbane QLD 4000

⚖️ DadAssist Perth Fathers Rights Lawyers

Serving: Perth, Western Australia

  • Federal Circuit Court Perth: 1 Victoria Avenue, Perth WA 6000
  • Family Court of Western Australia: 150 Terrace Road, Perth WA 6000

🏛️ DadAssist Adelaide Family Court Lawyers

Serving: Adelaide, South Australia

  • Federal Circuit Court Adelaide: 3 Angas Street, Adelaide SA 5000
  • Family Court of Australia Adelaide: 3 Angas Street, Adelaide SA 5000