About us

Adoption Action was established in 2010 by volunteers concerned about the harm caused by the Adoption Act 1955.

Adoption Action acknowledges the members who advocated for adoption law reform since the 1970s.  Sadly, three champions, Keith Griffiths, Mary Iwanek and Robert Ludbrook died before their vision for adoption law reform came about.  Inspired by their dedication, Adoption Action continues the mahi educating and advocating for a legal framework that protects the human rights of today’s children and all people impacted by an Adoption Order now and in the future.

Adoption Action acknowledges the many volunteers who, over the past 70 years, have facilitated support groups, shared their adoption experiences, searched records for lost ones, and supported people to reclaim their truthful identity through reconnection with kin and whakapapa.

Adoption Action’s mahi has included lobbying politicians, presenting submissions, and appearing at tribunal hearings.  Of particular significance was the claim taken in 2013 by Adoption Action to the Human Rights Tribunal for the discriminatory provisions contained in the Adoption Act 1955.  The Tribunal’s decision can be viewed here.  There is a summary here (p6).  Despite this positive outcome and many attempts at reform over the last 48 years the Adoption Act 1955 remains the law.

If the Adoption Act 1955 remains in force, Adoption Orders, whether made yesterday, today or tomorrow, exposes children and their families/whānau to the same harms endured by so many over the past 70 years.