On Tuesday, 27 March 2018 the Committee adopted an inquiry into local adoption in accordance with the terms of reference referred by the Hon Dr David Gillespie MP, Assistant Minister for Children and Families.

The Committee is accepting written submissions, addressing one or more of the terms of reference, to be received by Tuesday, 15 May 2018. For information on how to make a submission, go to our Making a submission to a Committee Inquiry page.

The Committee will also be conducting public hearings to gather evidence from stakeholders.

Participants are asked to ensure that names and identifying details of people are not disclosed when providing input to the inquiry.  Please be aware that the Committee is unable to intervene or provide advice or assistance in relation to individual circumstances.

Due to the sensitive nature of the inquiry, the Committee has taken the decision to use its discretion to remove names and text from some submissions to protect the privacy of individuals making submissions and other people who might also be affected.  Names of submitters may be withheld from publication, either at the request of submitters or at the Committee's discretion.

This inquiry, including the content of submissions, may cause distress to some people.

We advise that those people who have been affected by past adoptions or are sensitive to trauma issues may wish to be mindful when engaging with this inquiry and ensure that appropriate support is available.

If you are experiencing distress, please call LIFELINE on 13 11 14, or to contact the Forced Adoption Support Service in your state or territory, call 1800 210 313.