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Adoption law reform – options for creating a new system
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 2022to 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:
