Additional support
VARTA provides educational and short-term support for people and families involved in donor conception while applications for information from the Central and Voluntary Registers are being processed.
If you or someone you know needs additional support, there are external services, including private counselling and support group options below:
Counselling
ANZICA - Fertility Society Australia & New Zealand
Private practice counsellors |
The Australian and New Zealand Infertility Counsellors Association (ANZICA) members include clinical psychologists, psychologists and social workers experienced in helping people cope with the emotional aspects of fertility treatment.
You can find information on private fertility counsellors here.
Better Access initiative
Government subsidised support |
The Better Access initiative is available for people with a diagnosed mental health condition including anxiety and depression. It provides up to 10 individual and up to 10 group allied mental health services per year for eligible people.
Speak to your GP about a mental health treatment plan and eligibility for Better Access.
Low cost or free mental health services
Support groups
Donor Conceived Australia (DCA)
Online and in-person support group | Donor-conceived adults
National organisation led by donor-conceived people, offering support, education and advocacy for donor-conceived people in Australia. DCA facilitates regular sessions.
Find out more about DCA, about DCA Networking Group or find an event here.
Australia Solo Mothers by Choice support group
Online support and in-person group | Solo mums
A Facebook support group for Australian women anywhere in their Solo Mum by Choice journey, including women considering this path. This group provides support for those looking to connect and share knowledge and experiences. Regular in-person meetings are held throughout the year.
Find out more or join the group here.
Members of this group will also be able to join the Victorian subgroup (ASMBC Victoria).
Donor Egg Parents’ support group
Online Facebook support group | Parents of children conceived using donor eggs
A group for parents and parents to be of children conceived using a donor egg to connect and share experiences.
Those considering using donor eggs are also welcome to join.
Find out more or join this group here.
Other support services and resources
Lifeline | Anyone having a personal crisis | Call 13 11 14 or chat online
Beyond Blue | Support and information about mental health | Call 1300 22 4636 or chat online
MensLine Australia | 24/7 support and online counselling for men | Call 1300 78 99 78 or chat online
Kids Helpline | 24/7 support for young people aged 5 – 25 years | Call 1800 55 1800 or chat online
Black Dog Institute | Mental health resources and support tools
Victorian Pride Centre | Practical and supportive services for LGBTIQ+ communities
Head to Health | Mental health and wellbeing support. Monday to Friday 8.30am–5pm
(except public holidays) | Call 1800 595 212
PANDA | Mental health support during pregnancy and the first year of parenthood | Mon to Fri 9am-7:30pm AEST/AEDT | Call 1300 726 306
Triple Zero | For urgent medical help | Call 000
Healthtalk Australia - Experiences of Infertility & Fertility Treatment | a resource which presents short films on the stories of 25 women and gender diverse people living in Australia who have generously shared their experiences of infertility and fertility treatment.