Kate - Go and get an appointment with the Permanent Care/Adoption Team at your local Department of Human Services office. They will be able to give you all the information that you need.

Secondly, adoption will usually only take place after EVERYONE consents - including the birth father - and has had counselling. It is possible, but difficult, to have the birth father's consent dispensed with. It all depends on the circumstances.

Go and talk to DHS.

(PS I'm a family law barrister and as a solicitor, I have done adoptions, so know the basic procedure. Best wishes.)