Our History

2009

Perth Western Australia based, Greg and Mark talked about becoming parents and reached out to a gay couple that were featured in Out in Perth for becoming gay parents. Through an internet search they discovered the Gay Dads Australia community group and then met the founder, Rodney, in Victoria.

2010

Rodney approached Greg to create the Gay Dads Western Australia (WA) community group, which connected through Yahoo Groups and emails. The intent was to connect WA gay dads and their families together in order to share parenting information and support each other.
30 October 2010, Some of the dads marched with Rainbow Families in the Perth Pride March.

2011

24 April 2011, The first official Gay Dads WA social event was held during Easter 2011, with more social events occurring that year.

2012

Gay Dads WA organised parenting sessions for the dads
28 September 2012, Sunday Times Magazine story on founders of Gay Dads WA, Greg and Mark. They share their journey of becoming parents and their love for their child., and the group were featured in print media with Sunday Times Magazine and Scoop.

2014

17 October 2014, Social platform transitioned from Yahoo Group to Facebook.
18 October 2014, Family event organised at the White Chocolate Company in Swan Valley WA.
16 November 2014, Family session with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den in Morley WA.
05 December 2014, Parents social bowling at AMF Morley WA.
14 December 2014, Family Christmas morning tea with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den in Morley WA.

2015

06 February 2015, Parents Mini Golf social at Wanneroo Botanical Gardens WA.
15 February 2015, Stall at Pride WA Fairday with Playgroups with Pride WA.
23 February 2015, Parents Bootcamp session at Woodville Reserve WA.
30 February 2015, Parents Bootcamp session at Woodville Reserve WA.
12 April 2015, Family Easter Picnic at Kings Park WA.
19 July 2015, Family Culture Day event with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den in Morley WA.
6 September 2015, Father’s Day family celebration at Whiteman Park WA.
19 September 2015, Quiz Night Fund Raiser with Playgroups with Pride WA at Bedford Bowling Club Bedford WA.
21 November 2015, Pride Parade wit Playgroups with Pride WA in Northbridge WA.
06 December 2015, Parents Christmas Party at Inflatable World Leeming WA.

2016

27 February 2016, Parents Bowling social at Rosemount Bowl WA.
10 April 2016, Teddy Bears Picnic event with Playgroups with Pride WA at Kings Park WA.
18 April 2016, Rally to Defend Safe Schools in Murray Street Mall Perth WA.
29 May 2016, Inflatable World family event, Leeming WA.
16 July 2016, ‘Bingay’ Gay Dads WA Fundraiser Event at Cambridge Bowls Club WA.
03 September 2016, Father’s Day Family Picnic at Perth Zoo WA.
29 November 2016, Speakers at Perth Surrogacy Seminar in Perth WA.
27 November 2016, Family Christmas Party at Hyde Park WA.

2017

03 February 2017, Speakers at the Australian Intending Parents Seminar at the Metro Hotel, South Perth WA.
08 May 2017, Making Parents Day Cards with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den, Morley WA.
21 May 2017, Sunday Times story on parents Anthony and Joseph, regarding their love for their family while advocating for uniform surrogacy laws in Australia.
23 May 2017, Parents Anthony and Jo advocate for Surrogacy and Marriage Equality with Senator Glenn Sterle.
28 May 2017, Family Catchup at Synergy Parkland WA.
04 September 2017, Perth Now and the Southern Gazette story on parents Milton and Choon regarding their parenting journey through fostering.
01 August 2017, Parents Darren and Nigel talk on The Project about being gay parents in regional WA.
17 August 2017, Father’s Day event at Axo Playland Perth WA.
19 August 2017, Gay Parent Legal Forum Session with Barrister and Family Lawyer Marty.
04 September 2017, Milton and Choon featured in Perth Now and the Southern Gazette to talk about their parenting journey through fostering.
10 October 2017, Guest speakers at the Families Through Surrogacy Seminar.
04 November 2017, Key Assets Fostering Seminar focusing on options for queer parents.
15 December 2017, Parents advocate for Surrogacy Reform; Jeremy writes to MP Lisa Baker MLA and MIkael writes to MP Cassie Rowe MLA.
27 December 2017, Group Cinema Viewing of Coco at Belmont Cinema.

2018

13 January 2018, Nine News story on parents Michael and Brendon, regarding their surrogacy journey through Canada while the McGowan government considers changes to Western Australia Surrogacy Laws.
27 January 2018, Surrogacy Legislative Review with barrister and family lawyer Marty Kavanagh in order to develop a submission to government on the reforms.
03 February 2018, Survey created to collect feedback from the Gay Dads WA members on Surrogacy Reform.
13 February 2018, Channel 9 News reporter Annalise Bolt reaches out to Gay Dads WA to do a story.
15 February 2018, Parent Ollie advocates with MP Lisa Baker regarding the Surrogacy reforms.
16 February 2018, Guest speakers at the Families Through Surrogacy Seminar.
13 March 2018, Parents Ross and John speak on 9 News Perth about the challenges of WA Surrogacy Laws.
16 March 2018, Government of Western Australia Department of Health submission made regarding the WA Human Reproductive Technology Act 1991 and the Surrogacy Act 2008
24 March 2018, Marty Kavanagh together with Gay Dads WA submit recommendations on surrogacy reform.
31 March 2018, East Party and Egg Hunt event at Yokine Reserve WA.
23 August 2018, The Human Reproductive Surrogacy Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 in introduced to parliament.
23 August 2018, 9 News Perth story on the Surrogacy Bill being introduced to parliament.
02 September 2018, Family Social event at Kings Park WA.
18 September 2018, State Members of Parliament are inundated with emails called for them to vote against the Humaproductive Surrogacy Legislation Amendment Bill 2018.
18 September 2018, Parents write to MPs urging them to support, including Ollie who writes to all 6 MPs in the Legislative Council that represent him.
09 October 2018, The Bill is debated in the WA Legislative Assembly.
21 October 2018, Pride in the Park Picnic and Storytime with Vic Park Pride at Henderson Court, Bentley WA.
16 November 2018, Guest speakers at Family Through Surrogacy Seminar in Perth WA.
08 December 2018, Family Christmas Social at Whiteman Park WA.

2019

14 January 2019, ABC News story on surrogacy in WA.
07 February 2019, Parent Michael talks with office of Greens leader MP Alison Xamon MLC gaining support for the surrogacy reforms.
14 February 2019, Debate on the Bill continues in the Legislative Council.
19 February 2019, Garrett and Leon advocate on the surrogacy bill with his MP Matthew Swinbourne MLC.
17 March 2019, Family Social Get Together at Kings Park WA.
22 April 2019, East Gathering and Egg Hunt at Yokine Reserve WA.
31 August 2019, Father’s Day Celebration with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den, Morley WA.
02 October 2019, Father Simon talks to Q Magazine about being a father.
22 October 2019, Guest speakers with Marty Kavanagh at the Perth Surrogacy and Donor Seminar.
14 December 2019, Christmas Celebration with Playgroups with Pride WA at the Den Morely WA.
16 December 2019, Micheal and Brendan talk to GROK (Curtin University) about the stalled surrogacy laws.

2020

09 January 2020, Perth Zoo Family Catch Up at Perth Zoo WA.
13 April 2020, Easter Gathering and Egg Hunt at Yokine Reserve WA.
14 November 2020, Parent Greg Chang and family lawyer and barrister Marty Kavanagh participate in the Perth PrideFEST 2020 Rainbow Talks. Greg shared his story on surrogacy while Marty gave an overview of the current legislation within WA.

2022

29 August 2022, Attendance at the Health Consumers Council (WA) Seminar regarding ART and Surrogacy.
13 October 2022, E-petition to parliament requesting legislative surrogacy reform.
08 November 2022, Guest speaker at the Surrogacy and Egg Donation Seminar.
13 November 2022, Mix 94.5 FM Radio Interview with Tim Lordan to discuss passion as queer parents.
26 November 2022, First-time participation in Pride WA parade, with sponsorship and support from Peter Foster MLA and Stephen Dawson MLC. Dads marched with their families and received an incredibly warm reception from the Western Australia community.

2023

11 January 2023, Meeting with the Stephen Dawson MLC, to thank for supporting the group.
15 January 2023, Family event organised at Floreat Beach WA.
23 January 2023, Grant received from Pride WA for the website gaydadswa.com.au creation.
12 March 2023, Family event organised at Wellington Square WA.
28 April 2023, The GDWA website was launched.
29 April 2023, Parents evening dinner organised at Northbridge restaurant.
18 May 2023, WA State Government accepted the recommendations of Dr Sonia Allan's 2019 review of the Western Australian Human Reproductive Technology Act 1991 and Surrogacy Act 2008 - which Gay Dads WA contributed to.
23 May 2023, ‘We Need Therapy’ podcast series invite parents to discuss the joys of parenting and current challenges of WA Surrogacy Legislation.
25 May 2023, Perth Radio interview parents following the announcement of proposed changes to WA Surrogacy Legislation.
08 June 2023, Community information session organised with Marty Kavanagh, WA Family Lawyer and barrister, explaining the proposed changes to WA Surrogacy Legislation and the impact on our families.
05 July 2023, ABC journalist Kenith Png reaches out to connect with WA gay intended parents to do a story on WA laws.
05 August 2023, ABC TV news and ABC online interview Craig and Stephen on the impact of the proposed WA Surrogacy Legislation changes on queer families.
06 August 2023, WA Health Minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson, joins a GDWA social event organised at the Pride WA offices to show her support for the community and discusses reform.
08 September 2023, Joint media statement with Rainbow FuturesWA, the government selected LGBTQIA+ lead body, advocating for changes in WA Surrogacy Legislation.
09 September 2023, Ngala meeting to identify ways to support our community group through our parenting journeys.
10 September 2023, Father’s Day family event organised at Wellington Square.
02 November 2023, Guest speaker at Perth Surrogacy Seminar organised by Growing Families.
12 November 2023, Family picnic event organised at Perth Fair Day.
16 November 2023, WA Government invite to Pride In Parliament event at WA Parliament House, recognising those that support the WA LGBTQIA+ community.
19 November 2023, City of Bayswater sponsor event where we share our parenting stories.
25 November 2023, Parade float in the Pride WA pride march. Second year.
14 December 2023, Advocating to MP Sue Ellery MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.

2024

09 January 2024, Sky News Australia interview gay dad Sam Everingham about the Pope’s comments on Surrogacy and the inequality in Western Australia.
11 January 2024, Sky News journalist Crystal Wu reaches out to connect with WA intended parents that are restricted in having children due to WA laws.
17 January 2024, Community networks reach out, asking people with lived experience if they would like to share their stories in the media.
29 January 2024, Signing the Rainbow Futures WA petition for the government to prioritise LGBTQIA+ law reform.
29 January 2024, Sky News Australia interview parents Brad and Trent, and barrister Rachel Oakley regarding the discrimination in WA laws.
30 January 2024, Petition created with Brad and Trent to challenge WA discriminatory laws, resulting in 1,700 signatures.
30 January 2024, GRAI support to the campaign through Facebook and newsletter articles.
31 January 2024, Pride in Law support the campaign to raise awareness of GDWA through their social platforms.
January 2024, Received campaign awareness support from our WA community. Including Rainbow Futures WA, Rainbow Families WA, Perth & Southern Perth Gay Guys, Perth Rainbow Community, Perth LGBTI+ Community, Perth Queer Community, Playgroups With Pride WA, Gay Intended Dads Australia, Western Australia Surrogacy Group, Rainbow Families of Perth, Pride In Law, Growing Families and more.
04 February 2024, Family event organised at Floreat Beach WA.
08 February 2024, Australian Human Rights Commission WA roundtable invite by Ruby Susan Mountford, Specialist Advisor for SOGII and Anna Cody, Sex Discrimination Commissioner, to discuss discrimination in WA.
11 February 2024, Sunday Times feature letter regarding the proposed WA surrogacy Laws and raising awareness for change.
12 February 2024, 60 minutes journalist Anne Worthington reaches out to discuss international surrogacy issues.
12 February 2024, Advocating to Labor MP Bill Johnston MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
15 February 2024, Advocating to Labor MPs Stewart Aubrey MLA and Katrina Stratton MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
16 February 2024, Advocating to Labor MP Dr Jags Krishnan MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
21 March 2024, Advocating to WA Premier Roger Cook MLA with Surrogacy WA and Peter Foster MLC, to share their stories and advocate for legislative change. The Premier confirmed the need for change and expressed his commitment to help WA families have their children in WA with the same legal protections as other WA children.
29 March 2024, Annual Easter Egg Hunt event organised for families at Yokine Reserve WA.
16 April 2024, WA Government confirms in a statement it’s intention to make law reforms in ART and Surrogacy following the abolishment of the Gender Reassignment Board for Trans and Gender-Diverse Western Australians.
17 April 2024, Joint Equality Australia statement on WA Legislative Reforms.
11 May 2024, Parents dinner event at Northbridge Restaurant in Perth WA.
19 May 2024, National Families Week picnic event organised with community groups Rainbow Families, Rainbow Families Western Australia, Western Australia Surrogacy Group, Playgroups With Pride WA and more. Recognising how diverse families can be and the importance of community connections and sharing our stories. Also attending on behalf of the Premiers Office, the Hon. Peter Foster MLC and on behalf of the Department of Health, the Hon. Pierre Yang MLC.
20 June 2024, Advocating to Federal Labor Member for Tangney, Sam Lim for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia. In particular the discrimination by the federal government on children born through international surrogacy arrangements.
28 July 2024, SBS Dateline story on Anthony and Jo navigating through the Thai surrogacy legislative changes during the birth of their child.
29 August 2024, Support for the Equality Australia statement expressing our dismay and frustration at the federal government’s recent census decision.
30 August 2024, Letter sent to Premier Cook requesting urgent need for surrogacy reform.
04 September 2024, Pride Professionals Event guest speaker hosted at Gilbert + Tobin in Perth WA, raising awareness for the need for legislative change through lived experience story telling.
05 September 2024, Invite to the launch of Pride in Law WA Chapter held at the Perth WA Supreme Court Building. Pride in Law is Australia’s first and only LGBTQIA+ Association for legal professionals. The event was hosted by Thomas Wilson, President of the WA Chapter, with a keynote address by the Honourable Justice Kathleen (Kate) Glancy.
14 September 2024, ABC News journalist Rhiannon Shine reaches out to connect with people that have struggled with WA surrogacy laws.
13 October 2024, ABC News story on a gay male teacher leaving regional WA in order to pursue his parenting dream.
26 October 2024, Australian Surrogacy and Donor Awards recognise Paul Hadfield-Jia withthe ‘WA Community Person of the Year Award’ and the ‘Australian Community Person of the Year Award’ for his community support.
10 November 2024, City of Bayswater event sponsorship, ‘Rainbow Families WA Pride Picnic’. The event brought together queer parents and their families to participate in games, food and a story reading. Attendance included Deputy Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik and Councillor Natalie Latter.
14 November 2024, WA Government invite to Pride In Parliament event at WA Parliament House, recognising those that support the WA LGBTQIA+ community.
17 November 2024, Stall at Pride WA Fairday, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families.
23 November 2024, Parade float in the Pride WA pride march. Third year.
24 November 2024, Surrogacy & Donor IVF Information Day Guest Speaker, offering support and guidance to intended parents.
26 November 2024, Premier Cook and the Minister of Health, Hon. Amber Jade Sanderson meeting together with WA Surrogacy and Rainbow Futures WA. Premier Cook gave apologies that the ART and Surrogacy reforms had not been delivered and gave his commitment to delivering the legislation immediately after re-election in March 2025.

2025

11 January 2025, WA Surrogacy Reform Campaign introduced, resulting in an incredible 3,400 emails sent to WA politicians.
15 January 2025, Minister of Health written acknowledgment of advocacy and committing to delivering the ARTS legislation during the first half of 2025.
16 January 2025, Channel 7 journalist Geoff Parry reaches out to do story on surrogacy reforms.
16 January 2025, Channel 7 News tv story on our views of the current surrogacy legislation for its proposed release mid 2025
17 January 2025, The West Australian newspaper feature story on the reforms and ask for our comment.
17 January 2025, OutinPerth news story regarding our involvement in surrogacy reforms.
19 January 2025, Rainbow Picnic family event organised in Kings Park WA together with PGWA.
09 February 2025, The Sunday Times Have Your Say comment for the need for surrogacy reform.
13 February 2025, Advocating to Labor MP Ron Sao MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
14 February 2025, Milestone: 4 weeks into the Surrogacy Reform Campaign resulted in 3,400 emails to WA politicians.
17 February 2025, News Corp journalist Tamara McDonald reaches out to connect with parents through surrogacy and do a story on WA laws.
18 February 2025, Participation in the City of Bayswater Access and Inclusion Consultation.
20 February 2025, Ngala CEO Michelle Dillon meeting to discuss collaboration.
24 February 2025, Advocating to Labor MP Dr Jags Krishnan MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
04 March 2025, News Corp Australia's state mastheads national story on Paul Hadfield-Jia: Victoria: Herald Sun, New South Wales: The Daily Telegraph, Queensland: The Courier-Mail, South Australia: The Advertiser, Tasmania: The Mercury and Northern Territory: Northern Territory News.
15 March 2025, Parents dinner event at Northbridge Restaurant in Perth WA.
20 March 2025, Ngala CEO Michelle Dillon and Rainbow Families Australia CEO Ashley Scott follow up meeting.
23 March 2025, Participation in the Pride WA CEO Laurie Butterly Consultation on the government inclusion Strategy.
25 March 2025, Department of Communities support for creation of rainbow families survey submission to the government WA Inclusion Strategy, including guidance on questionnaire.
31 March 2025, Rainbow Families Inclusion Strategy Survey initiated targeting feedback from WA rainbow families requesting feedback into the Inclusion Strategy, resulting in 67 responses in 7 weeks.
02 April 2025, Rainbow Families Australia secure Medicare IVF and IUI cover for same sex females.
07 April 2025, Women’s Day story featuring parents Anthony and Jo on their surrogacy journey.
14 April 2025, New Campaign to Government and key WA Politicians requesting for the promised reforms before the Labor majority change in the Upper House on 22 May 2025. Over 170 emails sent in 4 weeks.
19 April 2025, Rainbow Families event organised at Volcano Park WA.
20 April 2025, Annual Easter Egg Hunt organised at Yokine Reserve WA.
23 April 2025, Minister of Health, Merredith Hammat MLC meeting with Sherrie Wilson Chief of Staff and Matthew O’Keefe Snr Policy Advisor to discuss working together and delivering the legislative reforms on ART and Surrogacy in 2025.
28 April 2025, Establishment of Rainbow Families of WA, a collaboration between GDWA, Playgroups with Pride WA and Rainbow Families Australia.
01 May 2025, Peter Foster MLC delivers valedictory speech recognising the contribution of Rainbow Families and GDWA to the LGBTQIA+ community.
07 May 2025, Advocating to Leader of the Greens Party, Dr Brad Pettitt MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
09 May 2025, Advocating to Legalise Cannabis Party staffer, Craig Buchanan for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia and meeting with Legalise Cannabis leader Dr Brian Walker MLC.
14 May 2025, The Premiers Team Meeting with Daniel Smith Chief of Staff, Luke Clarke Chief of Policy and Stacey Hearn Director of Social Policy. Premier Cook’s commitment to delivering the reforms in early 2025 were raised and discussion continued on us working with government to deliver the reforms. We made clear the government needed to honour that commitment and that failure to act would result in increased public advocacy and political pressure.
14 May 2025, Equality Australia Heather Corkhill provides support to advocates in key issues to be considered in the legislative reforms.
15 May 2025, Minister of Health’s Team meetings sharing lived experience in order to help assist the proposed legislative reforms.
17 May 2025, Rainbow Families of WA Colouring Book release, allowing rainbow families children to see themselves in the pictures they colour.
17 May 2025, National Families Week and IDAHOBIT Day Picnic event organised at JH Abrahams Reserve, Crawley WA.
20 May 2025, Ngala CEO Michelle Dillon and Rainbow Families Australia CEO Ashley Scott follow up meeting to discuss further partnership.
23 May 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
28 May 2025, Rainbow Families Survey results presented to the WA Department of Communities for submission to the LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Strategy to WA Government.
29 May 2025, Monash University Round Table Discussion invite to develop a submission to the ARLC review of Surrogacy, involving key figures in the surrogacy community across Australia.
31 May 2025, Heartbreak Club Sponsored CPR and First Aid for infants and children of rainbow families.
10 June 2025, Advocating to Legalise Cannabis Party Leader, Dr Brian Walker MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
11 June 2025, Perth City Farm CEO Kathleen Burton meeting to consider location for family events.
11 June 2025, Kids Research Institute Australia, Ezra Kneebone discussion regarding questions to WA surrogacy children for the ARLC submission.
11 June 2025, Created the ALRC Questionnaire on Surrogacy Laws for WA community members to complete online.
23 June 2025, Podcast of the Rainbow Families LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Strategy Survey submission released.
30 June 2025, Submission made to the ALRC on national surrogacy reforms, to be presented to government in July 2026.
11 July 2025, Equality Australia Tara Ravens meeting to propose media approach to WA stories with lived experience of surrogacy.
16 July 2025, Advocating to Greens Party MP Tim Clifford MLA and Hannah Fitch-Rabbit Research Officer for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
17 July 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
21 July 2025, Contribution to Pride WA consultations on Parade T&Cs in creating safe and inclusive spaces for rainbow families and children.
22 July 2025, Equality Australia and Department of Health meeting to discuss the media plan.
23 July 2025, Hannah Beazley MLA’s team meeting - Rachel Sackville-Minchin, Chief of Staff and Alex Figg, Policy Advisor, to discuss the LGBTQIA+ Inclusion Strategy and the submission made by Rainbow Families.
23 July 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
24 July 2025, Connecting Equality Australia with WA people with lived experience of surrogacy in order to deliver a media pipeline of stories ahead and through the introduction of the surrogacy reforms.
06 August 2025, Equality Australia Tara Ravens collaboration on potential op-ed to The West Australian sharing advocates story. This work continues through to November 2025.
07 August 2025, Growing Families meeting to provide guidance and prepare for the surrogacy seminar in November.
08 August 2025, Engagement discussion with City Fertility, Nicky Catakovic, National Sales & Marketing Manager.
11 August 2025, ABC News journalist Courtney Withers reaches out to do a story on ART and Surrogacy reforms.
12 August 2025, Press Conference on the introduction of the ART & Surrogacy Bill 2025 together with Premier Cook and the Minister of Health, Hon. Merridith Hammat MLA. Paul Hadfield-Jia from Rainbow Families and GDWA was invited to share his story of why the reforms are so important to Western Australians.
12 August 2025, ABC News on the reforms with stories of parents with lived experience.
12 August 2025, Equality Australia media statement on the reforms and the advocates driving the change.
13 August 2025, Equality Australia petition introduced resulting in over 3,000 signatures. Plan was for WA advocate to present to WA MP.
13 August 2025, Invitation of introduction reading of the bill into Parliament by Hon. Merridith Hammat MLA to key stakeholders and community groups.
13 August 2025, ART and Surrogacy 2025 Bill formally introduced to the Lower House, with photo opportunity with advocates and supporters.
13 August 2025, WAMN News record the full speak on the steps of Parliament House.
13 August 2025, Equality Australia run media story on WA intended parents Matt and Cale Bryn-McLean.
13 August 2025, SBS News journalist Cameron Carr reaches out for lived experience story on surrogacy.
13 August 2025, SBS News featured story on advocate and parent through surrogacy.
13 August 2025, 9 News journalist Yashee Sharma reaches out for lived experience story on surrogacy.
14 August 2025, Rainbow Families Australia media statement regarding the reforms and advocate involvement.
15 August 2025, 9 News story on Mitchell and James wanting to become parents
16 August 2025, Parents dinner event organised at Whitfords WA.
16 August 2025, Equality Australia Tara Raven introduction to advocate Nadeen Curran to develop surrogacy story for The West Australian.
18 August 2025, New Letter Campaign to Local MPs, encouraging them to use their person lived-experience stories in parliament or in the media. With over 240 letters sent.
20 August 2025, Engagement discussion with City Fertility, Nicky Catakovic, National Sales & Marketing Manager and Ellie Adams, General Manager WA.
20 August 2025, Linkwest annual conference awarded Rainbow Families with the People’s Choice Award 2025.
22 August 2025, Advocating to Labor MP Ron Sao MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
26 August 2025, Advocating to Labor MP Stephen Pratt MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
26 August 2025, Equality Australia Petition release supporting the WA reforms.
29 August 2025, Pride in Resources event guest speaker for Wear it Purple Day, talking about the importance of advocacy and reforms.
29 August 2025, SBS Insights reach out for information and overview of surrogacy in WA.
30 August 2025, Vic Park Pride collaboration to deliver the first Barn Dance for Kids at Perth City Farm, with a special visit from Min. Hannah Beazley MLA.
31 August 2025, Radio VCA 88.5FM show Beyond Labels with CEO Jeannie discussing the ART & Surrogacy reforms with Michelle Maynard MLA from City of Swan.
01 September 2025, ReGen Strategic The Pulse Podcast interviewing advocates about surrogacy reform and what it means to WA families.
01 September 2025, Advocating to Labor MP Colleen Egan MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
04 September 2025, Department of Communities Early Years Team meeting to discuss options to raise awareness of Rainbow Families.
05 September 2025, Advocating to the National Party including MPs Julie Freeman MLC, Scott Leary MLA, Peter Rundle MLA and Bevan Eatts MLA and staffers Seb Schiano, Lisa Logan and Kirrilee Warr.
07 September 2025, The Age News features parents Ross and John as they share their parenting story on Father’s Day.
08 September 2025, Advocating to Liberals MP Jonathan Huston MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
08 September 2025, Advocating to Nationals MP Rob Horstman MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
08 September 2025, Advocating to Nationals and Liberals with Equality Australia CEO Anna Brown and Rainbow Futures WA CEO Misty Farquhar and Natalie Latter. Nationals Party attendees included Rob Horstman MLC, Hon Julie Freeman MLC, Seb Schiano, Vishmi De Silva and Kirrillee Warr. Liberals Party attendees included Simon Ehrenfield MLC, Sandra Brewer MLA, David Bolt MLA, Adam Hort MLA, Jacques Lombard, Anna Bobczyk, Lilyan Rosiah
10 September 2025, Advocating to the Animal Justice Party, Nathalie Bergon Chief of Staff for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia where they confirm support for the bill.
10 September 2025, SBS Insight journalist Monique Pueblos calls to invite surrogacy advocate to attend show.
11 September 2025, Labor in the Lower House share their stories and those of their constituents in support of the bill. Many make reference to the campaign letters we created, connecting constituents with their MPs.
11 September 2025, Equality Australia and Rainbow Futures WA invite us to WhatsApp group to collaborate on surrogacy.
15 September 2025, Discussion with Department of Health’s Team regarding advocacy plans.
15 September 2025, Advocating to Liberals MP Leader Basil Zempilas MLA, Libby Mettam MLA and Denise Rice Media Advisor for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia. Advocates requested for a respectful debate.
16 September 2025, The West Australian story regarding activist Nadeen Curran’s journey through surrogacy.
16 September 2025, Opposition parties give speeches both for and against the bill.
17 September 2025, Sky News journalist Ciara Hain reaches out to do a story on WA surrogacy laws
18 September 2025, The Bill passes the lower house with an outstanding 44:4 win, with the Greens enforcing the removal of the 2-year prison penalty.
18 September 2025, Equality Australia media statement regarding our advocacy involvement in the reforms.
19 September 2025, Advocating to Nationals Scott Leary MLA for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
22 September 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
23 September 2025, SBS Insight invites parent Anthony Fisk to TV discussion regarding his experiences and the need for reform.
24 September 2025, Advocating to the Liberals MP Tjorn Sibma MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
30 September 2025, Advocating to the Liberals MP Michelle Boylan MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
01 October 2025, Sky News Australia story with advocates about WA legislation and the need for reform.
05 October 2025, Family Picnic event at Lesmurdie Falls.
06 October 2025, Advocating to the Liberals MP Tjorn Sibma MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia. Follow up meeting.
06 October 2025, Advocating to the Labor MP Parvinder Kaur MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia.
06 October 2025, ARTS information session for parents organised and given by family lawyer and barrister Marty Kavanagh.

08 October 2025, Advocating to the Animal Justice Party, Nathalie Bergon Chief of Staff for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia. Follow up meeting and confirmation that they will support the reforms.
09 October 2025, Advocating to Legalise Cannabis Party Leader, Dr Brian Walker MLC for support of surrogacy law reform in Western Australia where he confirms support for the bill. Minister Walker commenced responses to letters of his firm commitment to the reforms.
10 October 2025, Advocating to Nationals Rob Horstman MLC for support of surrogacy law reform with regional Western Australians sharing their lived experienced of surrogacy.
10 October 2025, Letter to the WA Legislative Council, requesting respectful debate, that words spoken can cause psychological harm and will be recorded as their legacy, and show compassion for the Western Australians they have been elected to protect.
10 October 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
10 October 2025, Greens Party send press conference invite asking advocates to give speech at parliament house.
12 October 2025, Radio VCA 88.5FM show Beyond Labels with CEO Jeannie invites advocates to discuss the proposed reforms.
13 October 2025, OutinPerth story noting the reforms bill moving to the Upper House.
13 October 2025, Marty Kavanagh, WA family lawyer and barrister introduction to Equality Australia regarding the WA reforms.
14 October 2025, Greens Party Press Conference with advocates giving speeches in support of the bill.
14 October 2025, 9 News story on the Greens Press Conference.
14 October 2025, 10 News story on the Greens Press Conference.
14 October 2025, ABC story on the Greens Press Conference.
15 October 2025, Greens Leader Dr Brad Pettitt MLC in parliament reads letter submitted to the Legislative Council on the 10 October 2026 and gave thanks naming individuals and organisations that advocated.
19 October 2025, Sky News story on the WA reforms.
21 October 2025, ARTS 2025 failed to go to Committee 20 votes to 16 in the upper house.
21 October 2025, Nationals MP Rob Horstman during parliamentary speech confirms support for the bill.
22 October 2025, Equality Australia launch a petition in partnership with GDWA and Rainbow Futures WA.
22 October 2025, Meeting Department of Health manager, Mark Fallows to discuss rainbow families inclusion.
23 October 2025, The West Australian journalist Oliver Lane reaches out for comment on rumour of potential delays to upper house legislation due to additional bills requiring completion before the year end. Reaching out to the Department of Health, it is confirmed that ART and Surrogacy remains a priority.
25 October 2025, Stall at Pride in Swan, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families.
25 October 2025, Australian Surrogacy and Donor Awards recognise Paul Hadfield-Jia withthe ‘WA Community Person of the Year Award’ and the ‘Australian Community Person of the Year Award’ for his community support.
29 October 2025, City of Vincent Mayor, Alison Xamon, meeting to discuss inclusivity of rainbow families at events.
01 November 2025, Stall at Freo Pride Festival, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families.
02 November 2025, City of Bayswater sponsored Rainbow Families Pride Picnic, with special attendance from Dan Bull MLC, Deputy Mayor Elli Petersen-Pik and Councillor Natalie Latter.
06 November 2025, Participation and engagement at Sarah Jefford Surrogacy Seminar.
09 November 2025, Stall at City of Vincent Rainbow Picnic, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families.
14 November 2025, WA Government invite to Pride In Parliament event at WA Parliament House, recognising those that support the WA LGBTQIA+ community.
16 November 2025, Growing Families Seminar guest speaker held in Perth, with fellow speakers and barristers Rachel Oakley and Marty Kavanagh.
21 November 2025, Crown Pride Luncheon attendance celebrating LGBTQIA support in WA.
23 November 2025, Stall at Pride WA Fair Day, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families. Included meeting the new Lord Mayor of Perth Bruce Reynolds and Leader of the Animal Justice Party, Amanda Dorn MLC.
26 November 2025, Minister of Health’s team meeting to discuss upcoming reforms and actions.
29 November 2025, Pride WA Parade - theme “We are Here - Rainbow Families - For Good” with 100 attendees in our float.
02 December 2025, Greens MP Jess Beckerling MLC raises questions in parliament regarding parentage agreements for parents with only one father on the birth certificate, giving the lived example of Paul Hadfield-Jia.
03 December 2025, ART and Surrogacy 2025 Bill passed in the Upper and then Lower House. Advocates attended both sessions to see the legislation pass. We were then invited to celebrate with key stakeholders in Parliament House.
03 December 2025, Premier Cook media video celebrating the advocates that made the reforms happen.
03 December 2025, ABC News feature story on the passing of the reforms.
03 December 2025, OutInPerth story on the passing of the legislation and advocate involvement.
04 December 2025, ABC Perth and ABC Listen Radio interview with host Nadia Mitsopoulous interviewing Paul Hadfield-Jia on the reforms.
04 December 2025, Premier Cook in parliamentary session mentions the ABC Perth story that he listening to the ABC radio.
04 December 2025, Greens Party and advocates photo at parliament.
04 December 2025, WA Parliament Press Conference with speakers Minister Merridith Hammat MLA and advocate Paul Hadfield-Jia. Recorded by WAMN News on the steps of Parliament House.
04 December 2025, 9 News TV story on the reforms and press conference.
04 December 2025, The West Australian story on the reforms.
07 December 2025, OutInPerth podcast promoting the community support provided by rainbow families.
07 December 2025, Amber-Jade Sanderson MLA media story celebrating the advocacy work to create the reforms.
14 December 2025, Christmas Party family event organised at Hyde Park Mount Lawley WA.
17 December 2025, Event Celebration of the passing of the ARTS 2025 Bill at Connections Night Club bring together supporters, advocates and members of parliament, including representation from the Liberals, Greens and Legalise Cannabis parties.
19 December 2025, OutinPerth story featuring the celebration event on the of reforms.
21 December 2025, Introduction of the Rainbow Families Australia first ever National Survey.

2026

08 January 2026, OutInPerth feature the Rainbow Families national survey to encourage local participation.
18 January 2026, Lazer Quest Joondalup family event.
15 February 2026, SDS Dateline shares a story on IP’s Jay and Jeremy and parents Anthony and Jo.
21 February 2026, Rainbow Families Story Time event reading in collaboration with City of Bayswater.
28 February 2026, Sydney Mardi Gras march with Rainbow Families Australia and Gay Dads floats.
28 February 2026, Stall at Albany Pride, providing the community information on becoming and being a queer parent and safe connection with other rainbow families.
04 March 2026, OutInPerth story feature Rainbow Families of WA and the celebrate the work being done both regionally and nationally.
08 March 2026, Kings Park Picnic family picnic event.
11 March 2026, Pride WA’s CEO Laurie Butterly invitiation to discuss how to make PrideFEST and Fairday more inclusive for families.
12 March 2026, Participation in the Pride WA survey on creating a more inclusive PrideFEST and Fairday for Families.
14 March 2026, Parents dinner social in Northbridge WA.
24 March 2026, Social media promotion of the first version of the Rainbow Families colouring book.
05 April 2026, Rainbow Families event organised at Volcano Park WA.
11 April 2026, Participation in the Equality Australia survey on LGBTQIA+ parents in the lead up to the ARLC recommendations.
22 April 2026, Australian Human Rights Commission Pregnancy & Family Responsibilities Discrimination and Shared Care Roundtable with specific focus on the experiences of LGBTIQA+ parents and families.
24 April 2026, Murdoch University discussion on developing a Rainbow Families Colouring Book for children of queer parents using WA artists.
17 May 2026, National Families Week and IDAHOBIT Day Picnic event organised at JH Abrahams Reserve, Crawley WA.
21 June 2026, Heartbreak Club Sponsored CPR and First Aid for infants and children of rainbow families.