So I can't have children and my best friend (how is a mother) has volunteered to be a surrogate but I can't afford IVF. She had the idea of getting pregnant and then transferring custody (or legal guardianship) to me and my husband - is this actually legal?

We live in New South Wales Australia if that helps at all.

**Who - whoops

That would be considered adoption.

Is your husband going to be the one to have sex with her to get her pregnant?

If not the man who gets her pregnant will also have to agree to the adoption.

Yes, I know it seems kind of complicated but we are desperate and the adoption laws here are hellish - How would someone do this legally? Is it even legal?

I am very concerned that you have not thought this out clearly. It is apparent that you are having emotional problems (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/emotional-wellbeing/just-feel-like-all-too-much-643466.html) and are trying to solve them. You witnessed child abuse and didn't report it (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/children/child-abuse-643460.html).

Is this really a good time to bring a child into your life, particularly when you admit that you lash out when angry?

I do not find that the adoption laws in Australia are "hellish." They appear to protect the child. What am I missing?

This is not for now - its for future reference. I know I am in no place to raise a child right now - I just want to know the option is there and if this is legal.

Yes, it's legal if all of the parties have legal representation and the laws are followed.

Why do you think the laws are "hellish"?