Growing your family with the help of a donor—whether for sperm or egg donation—is a meaningful and deeply personal journey. At the same time, it’s important to be aware of the legal considerations involved, especially if you’re entering into a private arrangement.
What is a Donor Agreement?
A Donor Agreement is a written document between a donor and the recipient parent(s) that sets out the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of everyone involved. These agreements are especially common in sperm donation situations, particularly when the donation takes place outside of a clinic. While less frequently used in egg donation, they can still offer clarity and reassurance to all parties.
Even though Donor Agreements are not legally binding, they are highly valuable. They serve as a clear record of everyone’s intentions—before conception—regarding parenting roles, future involvement, and the child’s upbringing. This is particularly helpful when it comes time to register the birth, as Births, Deaths and Marriages may request details of the donor and any agreements in place.
Without a written agreement, misunderstandings can arise later. For example, what one person sees as a simple donor relationship, another might interpret as co-parenting. Having everything clearly documented helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone is on the same page from the beginning.
How we can help
At The Family Village, we’re here to help you navigate this process with clarity and confidence. If you’re considering donor conception, we encourage you to get in touch for personalised legal advice and support tailored to your family’s unique needs.
We offer fixed-fee pricing for legal services related to donor conception, including the drafting and negotiation of donor agreements.
Appointments can be made directly via the link below or by emailing us at hello@thefamilyvillage.com.au
