Victorian mothers who had their babies removed under historical forced adoption practices can now apply for the Allan Labor Government’s $138 million redress scheme – which recognises the profound and enduring impact of these practices.
Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes announced the scheme last October alongside a group of affected mothers following the eleventh anniversary of the Victorian apology to all those impacted by past adoption practices.
Forced adoption practices compelled mothers to give up their babies for adoption without their willing or informed consent, causing lifelong suffering for the mothers left behind.
These mothers continue to live with the serious, complex and ongoing effects of this trauma and the redress scheme is a step forward in the healing process. Eligible applicants will receive a payment of $30,000 and access to counselling, other psychological support services as well as individual apologies.
The scheme is the first of its kind in Australia to recognise the impact on mothers subjected to the practice and delivers on a key recommendation from the inquiry into responses to historical forced adoptions in Victoria.
Eligibility extends to mothers who gave birth in Victoria, or were a Victorian resident but gave birth interstate, and were forcibly separated from their newborn baby prior to 1990.
During the application process, a dedicated support team will be available to answer any questions, guide mothers through the application process and assist them with any supporting information that may be required.
For more information on the application process visit vic.gov.au/redress-forced-adoptions.
As stated by Attorney-General Jaclyn Symes
“We would not be here today without the brave women who shared their painful stories. Thank you for your tireless advocacy and for paving the way for others.”
“We can’t take away the pain, but we can acknowledge the damage these practices have caused and contribute to healing the injustices of the past.”
