SAME sex couples in Ipswich can legally become parents after the State Government moved to decriminalise altruistic surrogacy.

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has announced altruistic surrogacy for all Queenslanders, gay or straight, would be legal by the end of the year.

Ipswich Baptist Church Senior Pastor Ashley Saunders said the decision was a sad moment for the children who would grow up with same-sex parents.

Mr Saunders said the decision “dishonoured God”.

“I am convinced the natural family that God created is a mum and a dad,” Mr Saunders said.

“I feel sad for the children who will grow up with either two mums or two dads.

“I don't think that is best for the child.”

Altruistic surrogacy occurs when a woman agrees, for no financial gain, to become pregnant and bear a child for another person or persons.

The Queensland Association for Healthy Communities (QAHC), a gay-rights advocacy group, welcomed the government's decision.

“We also call on the government to introduce a comprehensive package of reforms, including civil partnerships and adoption for same-sex couples,” QAHC general manager Paul Martin said.

Queensland is the only state where altruistic surrogacy is a criminal offence.

Commercial surrogacy and advertising for surrogacy births will remain illegal but the birth mother could be reimbursed for hospital and other expenses.

“It will offer Queenslanders unable to conceive, a new optimism and, critically, the legal right to perform the role of parents that so many others may take for granted,” Ms Bligh said.

“Everyone - no matter their sexual status or their gender - should be afforded the privilege of parenthood.”

Opposition leader John-Paul Langbroek said his party would not support the law.

“To tie it to gay parenting is something that is completely unfathomable,” Mr Langbroek said.