Which type of surrogacy is legally allowed in Australia?

In Australia, altruistic surrogacy is the only type of surrogacy that is legally permitted. This means that a surrogate can carry and give birth to a baby for intended parents without receiving financial compensation aside from medical expenses and other reasonable costs associated with the pregnancy. This legal framework is built upon the understanding that surrogacy should prioritize the welfare of the child and the ethical considerations surrounding the arrangement.

Commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate would receive financial gain beyond reimbursements for expenses, is prohibited in most parts of Australia. The rationale behind this legislation is to avoid the potential exploitation of women and to ensure that surrogacy arrangements are based on altruistic motives rather than profit.

The option stating that nobody is allowed to be a surrogate is inaccurate, as altruistic surrogacy does exist and is legally recognized, allowing individuals the opportunity to be surrogates. Thus, the correct answer highlights the important distinction in the legal landscape of surrogacy in Australia, emphasizing the focus on altruism and ethical practices.