Adoption People Search

Finding Birth Families

In Australia, there are many people searching for members of their birth family. Some are just starting the process; others have already gathered some information to work with. Whatever step of the Adoption people search process you are at, we are here to assist.

The Start

Information is available to many adopted persons and birth parents in Australia. This disclosure should be considered carefully though as it can be an emotional experience. There are organisations that can help guide you and consult with you through this process.

Applying for Information

Due to each state having different laws in place at different times, there is no one size fits all approach. Government departments in each state provide post adoption details in the way of identifying and non identifying information. By visiting the relevant department in your state you can learn who is eligible and what details you may access.

Adoption Contact Registers

An Adoption People Search Register is a database of people looking for members of their birth family. It allows adopted persons, as well as birth mothers, fathers and siblings a means to reach out and reconnect. It is commonplace to have a minimum age requirement of eighteen to be able to register on these indexes.

Select registers allow extended family members such as Aunties and Grandparents to place entries as well.

The two main styles of register are official and private.

Official Adoption Register

An official adoption register is commonly held by a state Government department and will have a strict set of policies and at times a premium fee attached. This style of register is often a dual consent register, where both parties must have registered and agreed to allow contact.

Private Adoption Registers

A private register is one established by an individual, charity, group or business to assist those looking for members of their birth family. Some are free, others attract a premium fee.