Embark on a transformative journey into the world of international surrogacy and assisted reproductive technologies at our upcoming event in Perth. This is your opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the various paths to parenthood, guided by leading experts in the field. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are in the midst of your journey, this event is designed to provide you with the knowledge, support, and resources you need to make informed decisions.
SPEAKERS AT OUR PERTH
SURROGACY & EGG DONOR EVENT
Marty Kavanagh
Barrister and Solicitor
Marty Kavanagh is a seasoned family lawyer experienced in surrogacy matters. He provided pro bono legal support to GayDads WA in 2018 for submissions to the WA Surrogacy Review, offering trusted guidance to intended parents throughout their surrogacy journey.
Dr. Vuk Jovanovic
Medical Director
A top fertility specialist based in Los Angeles, Dr Vuk is renowned for his exceptional care of the LGBTQ community and his expertise in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. He combines advanced technology with compassionate care, helping patients worldwide achieve their dream of parenthood.
Dr Rahi Victory
Reproductive Endocrinologist
Dr. Rahi Victory, a Canadian-trained OB-GYN specializing in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, leads Victory Reproductive Care. Known for compassionate, personalized care, he meets every client, egg donor, and surrogate personally, ensuring exceptional experiences and successful outcomes.
Meet Our Expert Speakers
Parents & Families Speaking About Their Experience
What to Expect at our Surrogacy & Donor Event in Perth?
Our Perth event offers a deep dive into the critical aspects of surrogacy and assisted reproductive technologies. From legal insights to medical considerations, each session is designed to equip you with the essential knowledge needed to navigate your journey to parenthood with confidence. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
What You’ll Learn:
Choosing the Right
Country for Surrogacy
Delve into the intricacies of international surrogacy by learning how to select the country that best aligns with your needs and circumstances. Understand the legal frameworks, cultural differences, and logistical considerations that can impact your journey.
Navigating International & Domestic Surrogacy Laws
Gain clarity on the often complex legal aspects of IVF and surrogacy. Our legal experts will break down the laws and regulations that govern surrogacy in different countries, helping you to understand your rights and responsibilities as intended parents.
Medical Considerations
and IVF Essentials
Explore the medical side of assisted reproduction, from the basics of IVF to the specific medical requirements for surrogates and donors. Learn about the latest advancements in fertility treatments, embryo development, and the importance of timing and age in the success of your journey.
Citizenship
and Passport Arrangements
Understand the critical steps involved in securing citizenship and passports for your newborn. Our specialists will guide you through the paperwork, timelines, and requirements, ensuring a smooth transition from birth to bringing your child home.
Supportive Environment and Community Building
One of the most valuable aspects of our Perth event is the sense of community it fosters. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with other intended parents, surrogates, and donors who share your journey. Through shared experiences and stories, you’ll find a network of support that can provide comfort, encouragement, and practical advice as you navigate the complexities of building your family.
Personal Stories and Real-Life Experiences
Hear firsthand accounts from parents who have successfully navigated their surrogacy and IVF journeys. These personal stories offer valuable insights into the emotional and practical realities of the process, providing inspiration and guidance as you embark on your own path.
One-on-One Consultations
Your ticket also includes access to personalized consultations with our experts. This is your chance to delve deeper into your specific situation, ask detailed questions, and receive tailored advice from professionals who are dedicated to helping you achieve your family-building goals.
Perth Surrogacy & Egg Donor Event 2024 Agenda
11:15 AM –
11:35 AM
What to Consider in Choosing a Path
Where can I engage? What pathway is appropriate for my situation? What are the pros and cons of Australia vs international? Discusses vital issues in regard to success rates, timelines, availability, emotional, cultural and practical considerations Are there fixed cost programs? How do surrogate relationships differ? What egg donors are available?
Sam Everingham, Growing Families
11:35 AM –
11:45 PM
Steps in the Process
What are the key steps in the process? Which order should they be done in? What can hold up the process?
Heather Anderson, Growing Families
11:45 AM –
12:00 PM
Parental Recognition for West Australians
What is the status of WA’s bill to reform surrogacy law? How does the bill affect the surrogacy rights of gay coupes and single men? Will the existing children of dads and future children of gay dads have their parents recognised on their WA birth certificates? Can gay singles and couples now engage in domestic altruistic surrogacy? How can WA family lawyers assist? What legal issues do intended parents need to consider?
Marty Kavanagh, Kavanagh Lawyers
12:00 PM –
12:35 PM
International Parent Journeys
Recent parents discuss decision-making, surrogate relationships, disclosure to family; cultural barriers; hurdles along the way, legal parentage, costs and a myriad of audience questions
Panelists: Greg Chang (via USA), Rachel (via Georgia), Brent Pitman (via Mexico) Paul & Charlie Hadfield-Jia (via USA) Rebecca Kalpakoff (via Ukraine)
12:35 PM –
01:15 PM
Lunch
01:15 PM –
01:55 PM
Important Considerations in selecting an IVF clinic
What should international patients look for; Why is medical screening so important? What are the typical issues that are red flags/ rule out a surrogate or donor? What is genetic carrier screening and how popular is it? Do international clinics insist on PGT-A testing? How are success rates measured?
Dr Vuk Jovanovic (US), Dr Clifford Librach (Canada), Dr Rahi Victory (US)
1.55 PM –
02:30 PM
What Country Is Right for Me?
How does surrogacy practice differ in English vs non English speaking countries in regard to surrogate screening, care, reimbursement and contact pre & post birth? How do hybrid programs work? Timeframes, Success rates. Legal protections; How do costs compare? What egg donors are available? Covers five jurisdictions
Lauri De Brito (The Fertility Agency, US), Nir Keren (BCT, Canada) Natia Janadze (GS Consulting, Georgia), Mario Lara (Miracle Surrogacy, Mexico)
02:30 PM –
02:55 PM
Domestic Family-Building Journeys
A local surrogate, a mum via domestic surrogacy and a mum via OS donor IVF discuss their journeys
Angela Davey, Kim Grieves, Elisabeth Rosinel
02:55 PM –
03:25 PM
Afternoon Tea
03:25 AM –
03:45 PM
Surrogacy in the USA – Ask Me Anything
Lauri De Brito, Kathryn Kaycoff, TFA; Greg Chang, Dad via US; Vuk Jovanovic, TLC Brittany Sheely (US)
03:45 PM –
04:05 PM
Surrogacy in Canada – Ask Me Anything
Dr Rahi Victory, Victory Reproductive Care; Nir Keren, BCT, Meghan Kolodka (Canada);
04:05 PM –
04:25 PM
Surrogacy in Mexico – Ask Me Anything
Mario Lara, Chris Reynoso, Miracle Surrogacy, Brent Pittman, Maria Noriega (Mexico)
04:30 PM –
04:50 PM
The lived experiences of surrogates and intended parents
Presents recent research with 320 Australian parents, IPs & surrogates to demonstrate why most intended parents go overseas for surrogacy, how they decide where to engage and the typical characteristics and outcomes of surrogacy journeys within and outside Australia
Ezra Kneebone, Monash University
04:50 PM –
05:05 PM
Supporting Your Journey
Understand how Growing Families Concierge Support can assist, from organising sperm or embryo shipping, choosing providers to suit your budget and specific needs, agency liaison, assistance with crucial decisions, emotional support, organising citizenship, passports, bassinets seats, vaccinations, Medicare and Centrelink connections, milk banks, insurance, cord blood banking, nanny and doula support, ante-natal classes. Understand what support surrogacy social media group in WA can provide
Sam Everingham, Growing Families, Candice Dix
05:05 PM –
05:25 PM
The Reality – Outcomes for Kids
Local teenagers born via donor IVF & surrogacy discuss their lives, disclosure and their sense of self
Charlie, Eliana, Kareena, Ameesha, April
05:25 PM –
06:25 PM
Drinks & Networking
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver
