Sunday marked the 16th anniversary of the National Apology to Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants, delivered by former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
It is an opportunity to reflect on the horrors that occurred between the 1920s and 1990s, where more than 500,000 children were forcibly removed from their families, and placed in homes, orphanages, and other forms of out-of-home care.
This practice created lasting pain for those who were denied the safe and loving childhood they deserved. It is a tragedy that continues to touch the lives of survivors, their families, and the generations that follow.
In recognition of the ongoing needs of victim-survivors affected by their time in institutional care, the Albanese Labor Government is announcing a two-year extension for the Find and Connect Support Services Program.
The extension will ensure 11 existing providers will continue to deliver vital services until June 2028 and builds on the Government's $940,000 funding injection provided this year.
In 2024-25, Find and Connect has helped over 3,700 individuals access services like specialist counselling, referral services, peer support, education, group sessions, and social support programs, and locating records and reconnecting with their families.
To access Find and Connect Support Services, you can call 1800 16 11 09 or visit Find and Connect.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek:
"Nothing will take away the pain experienced by children who grew up in institutions, orphanages and children's homes, but helping to reconnect these adults with family members, or better understand their family history can have an enormous impact.
"That's why we're extending funding for Find and Connect to help victim-survivors uncover their history, trace and reclaim their identities, and build relationships with their families."
