In their own words.

It is a question many people wonder about. Why would a woman choose to carry a baby for someone else, particularly in Australia where they don't get paid? Surrogacy can seem mysterious from the outside, yet for the women who step forward it is a joyful decision and a dream for some.

Below is a closer look at the motivations that shape modern Australian surrogacy, including five quotes from surrogates who generously shared the reasons behind their decision.

The joy of helping someone become a parent

For many surrogates, the decision starts with empathy. They see friends, family or members of their community struggle to conceive and realise they have something extraordinary to offer.

One surrogate from NSW told us,

“I always knew I wanted to be pregnant again but did not want more children. Helping someone else grow their family just made sense to me.”

A first-time surrogate from Queensland said,

“It broke my heart to see friends struggling with infertility. I realised I could do something extraordinary for someone else.”

This desire to help is often described not as a sacrifice but as a privilege. Many women feel deeply honoured to play a role in helping another family begin.

A love of pregnancy

A surprising number of surrogates simply enjoy being pregnant. They have had smooth pregnancies in the past, feel confident in their bodies and like the rhythm and purpose it brings. Surrogacy allows them to experience pregnancy again without expanding their own family.

As one mother of three put it,

“I had amazing pregnancies and felt so grateful for my own kids. Surrogacy was my way of paying that forward.”

A sense of purpose and personal fulfilment

Some women describe surrogacy as life-changing. It can feel like a calling or a natural next step in their lives. A repeat surrogate from Victoria shared,

“Being a surrogate gave me a deeper sense of purpose. I knew I was meant to help create joy for another family.”

Others speak about the deep connection formed with the intended parents. A surrogate from NSW said,

“It was not just about the baby, it was about forming a lifelong connection. The journey changed all of us for the better.”

Supporting someone they love

Known surrogacy remains common in Australia and is often driven by long-standing relationships. A sister, cousin or close friend may step forward after watching someone they love struggle with infertility or medical complications. This pathway tends to come with a strong foundation of trust and shared history.

Practical considerations

While Australian surrogacy is altruistic, expenses are reimbursed. For some women, especially those taking time off work, this reduces the practical barriers and acknowledges the commitment involved.

Advocacy and family equality

A growing number of surrogates also describe their decision as an act of social support. Some feel strongly about helping LGBTQ+ couples, single parents or others who face barriers to family building. Surrogacy becomes a practical way to stand for family equality in their own community.

Conclusion

Surrogacy in Australia is shaped by generosity rather than payment. Women choose to become surrogates because they care about others, enjoy pregnancy or feel called to make a meaningful difference. Every journey is personal, yet the common thread is a quiet, grounded desire to help another family grow.