VANISH provides a specialised search service for:
- people affected by adoption in Victoria - mothers, fathers, adopted persons and adoptive parents
- people affected by adoption in other states and territories, overseas as well as intercountry adoptions
- people affected by donor conception - donors, offspring and parents
- Forgotten Australians/Care Leavers - former wards of state, defacto adoptions and/or those who were placed in institution or foster care in Victoria up to and including 1989.
VANISH provides a professional and confidential support service for people who have been separated from their family by adoption, state wardship and donor conception.
VANISH runs support groups to provide opportunities to meet and share with others who have had similar experiences. These friendly and informal meetings offer a non-judgemental environment where you can speak about what is on your mind and how you are feeling, or you can just come and listen. For details read the Support Groups section.
The VANISH Counselling service is available to people affected by adoption living in both city and rural areas.
On request, VANISH can provide the contact details of a counsellor familiar with the effect of adoption.
PRIVACY and CONFIDENTIALITY is maintained at all times.
Advocacy and Education
VANISH continues to be active in advocating for best policy and practice and legislative change on behalf of the adoption community, and is active in informing the wider community about matters related to adoption and associated issues. VANISH continues to be committed to sharing the lessons learnt from adoption to ensure the best interests of the child are paramount.
VANISH Feedback and Complaints Policy