Individuals and Couples Seeking ART Overseas

At No.1 Fertility, we are often approached by families and individuals eager to explore overseas or interstate options to create a family.

We are dedicated to ensuring that parenthood is accessible to everyone, and we do so whilst prioritising adherence, and our commitment to ensure that our care aligns with Victorian legislation, the Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA), National Guidelines for Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART), the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC) and and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

We acknowledge the potential constraints on donor availability in Australia. However, we must emphasise our inability to endorse or support overseas or interstate treatments and associated legislation due to the uncertainty surrounding these practices.

We are unable to recommend or support treatment overseas or interstate due to variations in international and interstate laws affecting patient safety, care, and legislative aspects concerning the rights of the child to be born and donors, including their anonymity.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS?

At No.1 Fertility, we are delighted to explore the available options that are within current legislation guidelines. We do so by offering you the essential support and care you need. Our cohesive team of skilled fertility specialists, including doctors, nurses, counsellors, and support staff, is here to guide you through every step of this journey.
If you are interested in exploring No.1 Fertility as your preferred fertility partner, you can take the first step by booking your appointment for a free and confidential consultation with one of our expert fertility nurses.
The Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA) recommends several Australian donor-linking services and things to consider when seeking a donor. No.1 Fertility can assist you in understanding and exploring the options available to you and assisting you to reach your desired pathway.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the VARTA brochure (PDF) or visit the VARTA website. The Assisted Reproductive Treatment Act 2008 (legislation.vic.gov.au) also provides details.
The Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand is another excellent resource for couples who struggle with infertility, up-to-date with the latest information and research.

FURTHER INFORMATION

When choosing No.1 Fertility for your journey towards parenthood, you can expect that our foundation is built on care and compliance, prioritising your well-being and that of the child to be born.

If you have further questions about Australian laws, check out the helpful links below.

National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

As per the guidelines outlined by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), clinics and clinicians must refrain from endorsing or advocating practices that go against ethical guidelines or Australian legislation and have no obligation to participate in such treatment, including the support in facilitating of overseas treatment or cycle monitoring.

The NHMRC document provides a list of questions that individuals considering treatment at overseas clinics may find useful for consideration. We encourage prospective patients to review these questions to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the NHMRC ethical guidelines

The Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC)

The Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC) code of practice provides guidelines regarding overseas export. The code stipulates that patients cannot create embryos for commercial surrogacy and limits the export of gametes or embryos for commercial arrangements.