Mitchell Marianoff and James Walker have been partners for five years, yet their dream of starting a family was stalled until now. The couple, who met while studying in Queensland, relocated to Western Australia last year, hoping for a fresh start and positive changes in their lives. “We both kind of restarted away from our own networks and really hit our stride,” Marianoff shared.
From the outset of their relationship, the couple envisioned having children together. After their move, they began to explore surrogacy options, only to be confronted by restrictive state laws in Western Australia that define eligible surrogacy arrangements as exclusively for heterosexual couples. This legislation excludes not only gay couples but also single, transgender, and intersex individuals, severely limiting their reproductive choices.
Marianoff expressed their disappointment at discovering these outdated regulations, stating, “We were very shocked and a little bit heartbroken… socially, quite an outdated view that’s quite limiting on our next chapter.” Despite the beautiful environment and opportunities they encountered in WA, the couple found the legal framework disheartening.
The current laws force many across the LGBTQ+ spectrum to seek surrogacy and assisted reproductive services interstate or overseas, often at great financial and emotional cost. Marianoff lamented, “We’ve sort of been told, this isn’t for us yet…” emphasising that as a couple, they seek the same rights and opportunities as anyone else interested in parenthood.
Recently, a significant change emerged with the Western Australian government announcing reforms to allow broader access to surrogacy and assisted reproductive technology for LGBTQ+ couples and single individuals. Marianoff described this announcement as a “breath of fresh air”, marking the beginning of a new chapter as they now wait for a willing surrogate to start their family creation journey. They anticipate that the entire process may take at least three years and cost in excess of $100,000.
Health Minister Meredith Hammat affirmed that the reforms have been greatly anticipated, addressing the long-standing inequalities faced by same-sex couples. She emphasised the importance of this legislative change as a step towards ensuring that all couples can be legally recognised as parents of their children.
Community leaders from LGBTQ+ organisations echoed Hammat’s sentiments, pointing out that Western Australia has lagged behind in creating equitable laws. They urged parliamentarians to support the new bill, recognising its significance for many families.
The imminent discussion of the bill within the Liberal Party signals a crucial moment in Western Australia’s legislative history, pushing towards a more inclusive future for all. As Marianoff and Walker prepare for their family’s journey, they are hopeful for the changes that will transform their aspirations into reality.