Same-sex couples should be allowed to adopt

Queensland is considering amending the state’s adoption laws to include same-sex couples.

The state’s Adoption Act 2009 prohibits same-sex couples from adopting while still allowing them to become foster parents.

Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman has stated, “Queensland is out of step with contemporary standards and the approaches in most other Australian states and territories.”

The review is part of a five-year plan to update legislation. The Palaszczuk Government has also introduced the restoration of civil union laws that would allow same-sex partnerships to be legally recognised.

Fentiman added, “This review will provide opportunity to consider the implications of all current adoption eligibility criteria, including the exclusion of gay and lesbian couples.” and that “It is time that Queensland joined this conversation and considered the need to remove this discrimination from our adoption laws.”

Queensland would be joining New South Wales, Western Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, and Tasmania in allowing same-sex couples to adopt if the laws are changed.

The review of these laws “will provide opportunity to consider the implications of all current adoption eligibility criteria, including the exclusion of gay and lesbian couples.” stated Fentiman.