WA government to introduce surrogacy for gay couples and single men

The WA government has announced it will introduce legislation that will allow same-sex couples and single men to access altruistic surrogacy arrangements.

The McGowan government will introduce amendments to Western Australia’s surrogacy and human reproductive technology laws opening a new pathway for same-sex couples and single men to create a family.

The proposed changes, which will be introduced into State Parliament today, add to the family formation options of adoption and fostering that are already available to male same-sex couples and single men in WA.

The Human Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 proposes to remove restrictions to surrogacy for men and will bring WA into line with the majority of jurisdictions in Australia.

If the legislation passes, men will have the same access to surrogacy that women and heterosexual couples have had since 2009.

Health Minister Roger Cook said that last year’s support for marriage equality showed that Australia’s were in favour of society that recognised families with same-sex parents.

“Australia has already embraced marriage equality. By providing men with access to altruistic surrogacy arrangements in WA, we are ensuring that our legislation is reflective of contemporary society.

“A growing body of research tells us that it is not the sexual orientation of parents but a supportive and loving home environment that is the key to producing happy, well-adjusted children.

“Men already have access to fostering and adoption. These changes would give them another avenue for forming a family.” Minister Cook said.

Graeme Watson