Same-sex adoptions nod for Tasmania

"TASMANIA will allow same-sex couples to adopt local and overseas children under proposed changes to the state's adoption laws.

At present, only married couples have full rights under adoption laws in Tasmania.

The proposed amendment has angered the conservative Christian Lobby as the group deems a mother-father relationship the best for raising children. Gay and lesbian rights advocates, however, argue a loving and secure family is best for children regardless of the gender of parents.

The move will allow same-sex couples and de facto couples who are registered under the Relationships Act to adopt an unknown child, whether locally or from overseas.

-full report at The Mercury 

At present, the law only allows same-sex couples to adopt children who are "known" to them such as stepchildren or relatives.

The amendment will allow same-sex couples to adopt "unknown" children who have been relinquished by their birth parents and are available for adoption to suitable parents."

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