Applications

Completing an application form

You can find the application form and a guidance note (where one is available) for each type of applications by clicking the below buttons. Each form includes an information sheet with instructions on how to complete the application which can be removed prior to sending.

If you have any questions or concerns about completing an application, please contact your Assisted Reproductive Treatment (ART) provider in the first instance.

Sending an application form

Applications seeking an extension of storage of sperm, eggs, ovarian tissue and embryos or the removal of embryos from storage should be emailed to prpstorage@health.vic.gov.au. When sending a storage application to the Panel, please also send a copy to your clinic so that they are aware of your application.

If you are unable to email your application, please contact Panel staff to discuss alternative options.

After the panel receives an application

After the panel receives your application, it will be reviewed by panel staff and you will be notified of your hearing date in due course.

You will be advised whether you need to attend a hearing before the panel, or whether the matter will be determined without the need for you to attend.

Generally, you will need to attend a hearing if the application is for surrogacy arrangements, posthumous use of gametes and embryos, criteria not met and a review of a refusal to treat because of a risk of abuse or neglect to a child.

You may not need to attend a hearing if the application is for extended storage periods of gametes or embryos.

Attendance at a hearing will be via videoconference. Details of how to participate in a videoconference hearing will be provided to you before your hearing date. If you have concerns about attending via videoconference, please contact panel staff via email: prp@health.vic.gov.au

Notice of the hearing

If you need to attend a hearing, you will be served with a notice of the hearing that states:

• the nature of the hearing
• the date and time of the hearing
• that the applicant is entitled to attend the hearing, to make submissions and to be accompanied by another person
• that the hearing will not be open to the public
• that there is no right to legal representation at the hearing without leave from the panel
• the possible findings or orders that the panel may make.

Outcomes and decisions of the panel

The panel must inform you of its decision within 14 days of making a decision regarding your application. Please note that this may not be the same day as the hearing of your application and, for complex matters, may occur sometime afterwards.

Hearing outcomes are provided on a certificate that sets out the panel’s decision. The panel will provide written reasons for the decision.

A copy of the certificate will be forwarded to your assisted reproductive treatment clinic.