You’ve made it through the paperwork, the appointments, and the embryo transfers. The baby is on the way — and suddenly, parenthood feels very real.

Whether you’ve been planning for years or only just let yourself believe it’s happening, this moment can feel both joyful and quietly overwhelming. For intended parents, the final weeks before birth are a chance to move from logistics into lived experience — and to prepare for the transition in both practical and emotional ways.

Here’s a checklist to help you feel ready when the big day comes.

Every state in Australia has its own requirements for parentage orders, which you'll apply for after the baby is born. But before that, check:

  • Is everything completed for your surrogacy agreement, legal to-dos, and counselling appointments?
  • Is there a plan in place for the birth certificate (which initially lists the surrogate)?
  • Have you confirmed health insurance for the baby?
  • Is your surrogate supported in making any Medicare or hospital-related claims?

2. Prepare your home for a newborn

This is the fun bit, and the sleep-deprived bit.

  • Set up a safe sleep space (cot, bassinet, or co-sleeper)
  • Stock up on nappies, wipes, wraps, and baby clothes
  • Choose a car seat and have it professionally installed
  • Consider a pram or baby carrier that suits your lifestyle

You don’t need every gadget in the baby megastore, but a few essentials go a long way. Ask friends with kids what they actually used — and what just collected dust. Marketplace is a gem.

3. Arrange your leave and support network

Check in with your employer about parental leave entitlements.

  • Speak with HR and your manager early so expectations are documented and your leave is approved
  • Explore Parental Leave Pay via Services Australia — intended parents may be eligible if they meet the work test and other requirements
  • Think about who can help in the early weeks — family, friends, or perhaps a postnatal doula
  • Consider how you’ll manage meals, housework, and general life admin  - start stocking that freezer!
  • Discuss whether you’ll want quiet bonding time or to welcome visitors early on

4. Plan for time in hospital

Every hospital is different, and surrogacy births often need a little extra coordination.

  • Where will you stay — in the maternity ward, nearby, or at home?
  • Are you packing your own hospital bag (paperwork, clothes, snacks, baby clothes)? And does your surrogate have her hospital bag?
  • Has the hospital been briefed on the surrogacy arrangement?

Some hospitals offer a separate room for intended parents and baby, others don’t. Talk it through with your team, and your surrogate, well in advance.

5. Think about your first moments as parents

This is big. The handover. The beginning.

  • Will you be present for the birth? If it’s an emergency and you need to travel, what is the plan then?
  • Who’ll hold the baby first, and will there be skin-to-skin contact?
  • Would you like to capture the moment (photos, video, or simply being fully present)?

Discussing your wishes, and those of your surrogate helps make sure this moment is beautiful for everyone.

6. Plan how you’ll share the news

It’s a deeply personal milestone. Some intended parents want to shout it from the rooftops; others prefer a few quiet texts and a long nap. Some surrogates want to share their experiences on social media and others do not.

Think about:

  • When and how you'll announce the birth (social media, private messages, calls)
  • How the surrogate is included (with her permission)
  • How you might share the story with your child in future (photos, letters, books)

Final thoughts

Preparing for parenthood after surrogacy involves more than assembling a nursery. It’s about preparing your heart, your home, and your relationships for a whole new chapter.