In Vitro Fertilisation or “IVF” is the process involving the fertilisation of an embryo outside the womb, which is then transferred to the uterus. This process is generally used for women who are unable to conceive naturally.

You must be over 18 years of age and qualify for treatment under the guidelines set by the fertility clinic of your choice to receive IVF treatment. Some states have regulations regarding whether you can access IVF depending whether you are married, single or in a de facto relationship (including same sex relationships).

The chance for successful conception decreases with age and some clinics have age limits beyond which they may decline to treat you.

An embryo can be created using your own eggs and partner’s sperm, donor sperm or also using donor eggs and donor sperm.

If you donate your egg to someone else and you are not the intended parent, then you will not be recognised as a parent of the child by law.

If you are using a sperm donor they are not considered a parent of the child unless they are an intended parent.

You can, they will need to go through a counselling process and testing. They will also have to sign consent forms to donate and if they have a partner they may also need to sign consent forms.

You should carefully consider whether you use a known donor or an unknown donor as there can be issues that arise from either option. With an unknown donor your child may want to know who their biological parent is and they will have the right to that information when they turn 18.

If you use a known donor you need to be certain that person will not blur the line between donor and parent. You can do agreements however the Family Court or Federal Circuit Court would ultimately decide parenting roles if the relationship between the parties breaks down.

Some treatments may be claimable through Medicare or using private health insurance however there will be out of pocket expenses. The process can be very expensive particularly if you are unsuccessful in conceiving initially. You should discuss costs with the clinic prior to enable you to budget accordingly.