Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Conceive Baby podcast, I welcome Surrogacy Lawyer Nicole Russell to explore the complexities and nuances of surrogacy in Australia. Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer and together we delve into a subject often shrouded in mystery and misconception. Seemingly common in celebrity circles, we discuss what surrogacy looks like in the context of Australian law and culture.

Nicole Russell shares her personal surrogacy experience and professional insights into the world of surrogacy, detailing the step-by-step process that intended parents must navigate to start a family via surrogacy in Australia.  Nicole highlights the importance of cultivating strong relationships, mandatory counselling sessions, and the legal frameworks that surround surrogacy. Throughout the podcast, Nicole emphasizes the attainability and positivity of surrogacy when conducted within our country's carefully regulated system.

About

the Guest:

Nicole Russell is an accomplished surrogacy lawyer with a background as a senior commercial litigation and insolvency lawyer at some of Australia's top law firms and as

legal counsel for one of the country's largest financial institutions. After a personal journey through the surrogacy process, Nicole found a new direction in her legal career. She established Russell Walker Lawyers, a firm dedicated to assisting Australians in creating their families through surrogacy arrangements. With firsthand experience as an intended parent in an Australian surrogacy arrangement, Nicole brings a unique and compassionate perspective to her practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Surrogacy in Australia is a legally viable and positive pathway to creating a family, with structured regulations in place to ensure successful outcomes.    

• The foundational relationship between intended parents and the surrogate is crucial for a seamless surrogacy journey, with counselling playing a key role.

• Medical clearance for both intended parents and surrogates is an initial and critical step before proceeding with legal and practical arrangements.

• Surrogacy laws and processes vary by state in Australia, necessitating tailored legal advice and guidance for successful parentage transfer.

• Practical aspects, such as birthing plans and changing dynamics in the third trimester, can present challenges that require patience and adaptability.

CONTACTS FOR NICOLE

Website -

https://www.russellwalkerlaw.com.au/

Email - [email protected]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/russellwalkersurrogacy/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/russellwalkersurrogacy

Mentioned in this episode:

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