Review of the Adoption Act 1984: Consultation Paper

10. Conclusion

10.1 This consultation paper has reviewed a range of issues relating to the operation of Victoria’s adoption laws.

10.2 As required by the terms of reference, the review is aimed at ensuring the Adoption Act and the Adoption Regulations are relevant and appropriate to contemporary family and community needs and that the best interests of the child are the paramount principle guiding the operation of the legislation.

10.3 This consultation paper has covered a broad range of issues relevant to the application of the Adoption Act and the Adoption Regulations, as well as canvassing potential options for reform.

10.4 The consultation paper does not express concluded views on the matters raised by the terms of reference. Those conclusions will be stated in the Commission’s report, to be delivered to the Attorney-General by 28 February 2017.

10.5 The Commission welcomes submissions from all parts of the community. It particularly invites submissions from those who have had experience of or been affected by adoption, as well as from professionals with specialist knowledge in adoption law and practice.

10.6 You can provide input into the Commission’s review of Victoria’s adoption laws by responding to the questions throughout the paper. The Commission’s questions are also included at the back of this paper. Information about how to provide the Commission with a submission is on page vii. To allow the Commission time to consider your views before deciding on final recommendations, submissions are due by 16 September 2016.

10.7 Your responses to these questions will assist the Commission to determine whether changes are needed to improve the operation of this significant area of the law.