- The Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy Bill 2025 is now being debated in the Lower House
- Reforms will allow greater access for Western Australians to start their own families through science and surrogacy
- Bill will bring WA's laws in line with other jurisdictions around the country
Debate has begun on landmark legislation to remove long-standing barriers to Western Australians starting families in their own State through assisted reproductive technology (ART) and surrogacy.
The Cook Labor Government's Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy Bill 2025will modernise and streamline access to fertility treatment, surrogacy, genetic testing and donor information.
The changes will bring WA into line with other jurisdictions, including Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Queensland.
The Bill ensures the best interests of children born through ART and surrogacy are paramount and maintains safety and quality assurances through the licensing of fertility clinics by the Department of Health.
For donor-conceived people, where records are available, the reforms will extend their right to access important information about their genetic heritage - regardless of when they were conceived - providing them with knowledge that may assist with future family planning and health care decisions.
The legislation delivers on the Cook Government's commitment to modern, inclusive and evidence-based laws that reflect the needs of Western Australians today.
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"This reform is comprehensive and compassionate, making it possible for more Western Australians to start their families in their home State.
"I acknowledge the hurt felt by those parents who wanted to start their families here in WA but couldn't. It's an emotionally taxing journey that we should spare future Western Australians from having to endure.
"For Western Australians who've already had a child through an overseas surrogacy arrangement, this Bill will allow for parental recognition and protection for their children.
"These changes have been a long time coming, and we're proud to be the government that is delivering them."
