Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has promised to recognise traditional adoption in Torres Strait Island communities if re-elected on November 25.
Labor has set aside $1 million for the proposal, which acknowledges the continuous cultural practice in Torres Strait Island families.
The cultural practice usually refers to the permanent transfer of a child from one family member to another, or a close family friend.
"These practises have meant generations of loving, caring homes but these extended family relationships have not been fully recognised by Australian law in the same way as Western Adoption," Communities Minister Shannon Fentiman said.
Legal recognition will be based on three things: consent of both birth parents, suitability of the adoptive parents, and the rights and best interests of the child.
