Adoption law reform – options for creating a new system
Following a first round of engagement in 2021, the Government has developed options for a creating a new adoption system for Aotearoa New Zealand.
The adoption law reform process began last year and aims to create a system that puts tamariki at the centre of our adoption laws, by protecting their rights, best interests and welfare.
A second round of public engagement is now underway to hear what people think of the options for a more open and inclusive system. People are also being encouraged to share any other ideas for a new adoption system.
The Government has released a new adoption law reform discussion document for people to read and provide feedback on. Some of the key areas in the document include:
- a child-centred purpose for adoption
- ensuring legal connections to adoptive and birth whānau
- supporting children and birth family and whānau to take part in the process
- supporting contact agreements to keep children connected to their birth family and whānau
- creating automatic access to information on an original birth record
- recognising and supporting the adopted person to be connected to their birth culture.
People have until 7 August 2022 to give feedback, which will inform development of final policy proposals later this year.
To get more information, read the discussion document and have your say, see:
Adoption Law Reform: Options for creating a new system
This page was last updated: