The benefits and challenges of direct-to-consumer genetic testing for family tracing

This study is the first study of its kind in Australia.

It is estimated that up to 50 million people worldwide have used direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT)kits to learn more about their family history and cultural identity, and the results can often be a double-edged sword for people who have experienced adoption or out-of-home care.

With funding from the Melbourne Social Equity Institute, our team of cross disciplinary researchers worked with three community organisations VANISH, Open Place and ARMS (Victoria), to understand the needs of Victorian Australians from adoption or Out of Home Care (OOHC) communities, who use this technology. Two surveys and an analysis of the terms and conditions of DTC databases and platforms found both positive and challenging outcomes. New information could contribute to consumer emotional health by filling gaps in personal history, affirming identity, answering previously unanswered questions and contributing to a sense of belonging. However, discovering family secrets and deciding who to share information with and whether to pursue newly discovered relationships could also be distressing and have the potential to cause significant emotional and psychological turmoil for individuals and their kin networks. Feelings of abandonment and grief might be reawakened and outreaches and reunions varied in success. Disappointment ensued when close family connections were not found, or an outreach or reunion was unsuccessful.

Consumers also reported that the digital DNA marketplace was like navigating an ethical minefield of data ownership and privacy and that while generic services were supportive, they were often ill-equipped to help.

While this technology is understood and used in different ways by the different individuals, navigating these issues was no mean task, and the study participants called for more information and guidance to assist their decision making, clarify their thoughts and feelings and prepare them for a range of possible outcomes and impacts. With this in mind the research team translated the study findings into a resource for consumers and service providers, which was launched in December 2025.

The findings of this exploratory study significantly extend what is already known about the outcome, impacts and needs of consumers with an adoption or OOHC experience in Victoria, as they use DTC- DNA. It paves the way for further research in this area.