The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that only 208 adoptions were recorded nationally in 2023. Experts say these figures are concerning, as it’s the lowest ever on record. AIHW’s report highlights that in 2022, approximately 46,212 children were placed in the out-of-home care system.
Renée Carter, CEO of Adopt Change expressed urgency around all children in Australia being provided with a stable home.
“Evidence shows that the sooner a child is given stability and the environment in which to heal, the more likely they are to thrive.
“More needs to be done to guarantee that when a child cannot return safely to their family, they are part of a permanent family home, not raised by a system”. She continues.
Carter explains how the post-pandemic adoption climate, has changed drastically in Australia.
“The impacts of the pandemic and the economic climate, we are seeing a decline in available homes for children as well as this reduction in adoption”.
Sarah Lainson, adoptive parent of 3 young boys explains how rewarding adoption can be for Australians wanting to grow their family.
Sarah went through the adoption process with her adoption agency, Barnardos.
“There was a lot of paperwork and waiting, but obviously worth it, we are very thankful for our family; these boys make up a significant part of our family”.
Ms Lainson describes her experience with adopting her boys and how guardians must be supportive and committed in the process.
“It is challenging as the boys have different medical, developmental, and phycological challenges that we have had to support them through.
“Would absolutely recommend adoption, but it may not be for everyone as you do have to be committed to the process”.
‘We love our boys and all our kids; we are thankful for the opportunity to have them a part of our family’ she added.
Adopt Change is a not-for-profit organisation with a mission to support and educate families and communities in caring for displaced children (including those in foster care or orphaned) to achieve our vision of a world where all children grow, learn, play and thrive in a safe, nurturing and stable environment.
They provide support resources, training, education and programs to work towards achieving this goal.
For more information visit their website:
Natasha Hortis
Natasha Hortis is a writer and creative studying a Bachelor of Communications majoring in journalism at Deakin University. She has volunteered for multiple charities and is passionate about journalism as it is educating and informing, to empower those who may not have a voice. Natasha wants to be a journalist to make readers connect to the stories and investigate the real matters that have a big impact on the world.
