As Ethan and his wife embarked on their journey to start a family, they faced numerous challenges. Over eight years, they went through nine rounds of IVF in Melbourne, but it wasn't until they considered surrogacy that they finally had a positive result. However, their experience highlights the complexities and risks associated with overseas surrogacy.
Australia's strict regulations on commercial surrogacy mean that families are forced to seek services in other countries. While altruistic surrogacy is allowed in some states and territories, commercial surrogacy is illegal, leading many to travel abroad in search of a surrogate.
The process is often complicated, with families facing power imbalances and huge costs. Ethan and his wife spent around £450,000, including £125,000 for the surrogacy program and £60,000 on travel and other costs. They also had to navigate onerous bureaucracy to bring their daughter home.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has stated that over 1,300 children born through offshore surrogacy have been given Australian citizenship in the past five years. However, the costs of surrogacy vary dramatically, ranging from under £50,000 in unregulated developing nations to over £300,000 in highly regulated developed nations.
The Australian Law Reform Commission is currently reviewing the industry to better regulate it and harmonise laws with international legal obligations. The commission is considering the ethical implications of surrogacy, including the rights and best interests of the child.
While the complexities of overseas surrogacy are a concern for Australians, the issue also raises questions about the implications for UK nationals seeking similar services. The UK government has not implemented strict regulations on commercial surrogacy, but the process is still heavily regulated.