Children need stability to reach their full potential. Open adoption is one of the permanent placement options that must be considered before a child is placed in foster care and can provide long term stability for a child and a real sense of belonging. When a child or young person cannot be restored to the care of their parents, and guardianship is not appropriate, open adoption should be sought when it is in the best interests of the child or young person. Adoption is not usually considered suitable for Aboriginal children; however, legislation allows for the adoption of Aboriginal children as a final preference following parental responsibility to the Minister. Importantly, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principles still apply. 

 

Improved family involvement in adoptions with open adoption, embraces issues of identity, openness and the value of a child’s cultural and racial heritage. The child may retain links with their birth family and other significant people in their lives where it is in their best interests.  The Adoption Act 2000 has been changed to increase the involvement of parents in the development of an adoption plan. Even parents who do not consent to the adoption of their child can be given the opportunity to participate in the development of the adoption plan. This recognises parents’ interest in planning for their child’s future, including decisions about having contact with them and maintaining cultural identity.

 

When considering Adoption, and undertaking an Adoption assessment all other options need to be explored and ruled out before progressing. The Adoptions Act 2000 states "The court may not make an adoption order unless the making of that order would be clearly preferable and in the best interests of the child than any other action that could be taken by law in relation to the care of the child.’

 

SKC have staff that are accredited to complete adoption assessments, court reports, adoption plans and counselling for children and families in the adoption process. Adoption assessments can be very emotive due to the finality of the order and require specialist skills and expertise, to ensure they are completed in a timely manner. Often these matters drag on for significant periods of time due to the delicate nature of the topic and difficult conversations that are required. SKC staff do everything possible to ensure that all work in this area is undertaken respectfully and timely, to avoid the distress associated with a long drawn out process. Contact us direct for more information and a quote.