Find out about a previous adoption in the NT
If you were legally adopted, had a child adopted, or had a family member adopted in the Northern Territory (NT), you can find out information with approval from the Adoption Unit of the Department of Children and Families. There are no fees for this.
The Family Information Service in the Adoption Unit can provide information, support, and if needed, mediation between parties.
You will need to receive counselling before you will be given any identifying information.
The Births, Deaths and Marriages office can only provide information if they have authorisation from the Adoption Unit.
Documents you will need
To get information about an adoption, you will need to submit two forms of photo identification and proof of address.
You can use any of the following:
- driver licence
- passport
- pension card
- student ID card
- Medicare card
- credit card.
Any copies must be certified by a Justice of the Peace or Commissioner for Oaths.
How to apply
To get information about an adoption you will need to follow these steps:
Step 1. Fill in the family information service application form (62.1 kb).
Step 2. Submit your application by mail, email or in person to the Adoption Unit.
For more information contact the Adoption Unit.