The Tasmanian Government's interim redress scheme for historical forced adoption practices is now open.
Recognising that some mothers may be facing urgent or exceptional needs and cannot wait for the full scheme to commence mid-year, an interim scheme has been established to ensure timely support.
Attorney-General, Guy Barnett, said the interim scheme will bring forward financial assistance of $10,000 for affected mothers experiencing an urgent or exceptional need.
"This is an important step in ensuring we right the wrongs of the past," the Attorney said.
"Our Government is firmly committed to seeing affected mothers have access to financial assistance and support, and the establishment of this interim scheme is a key part of that.
"Historical forced adoptions caused significant pain and suffering for so many women, and I want to recognise all those mothers who have been affected by these practices.
"I want to thank those who have already participated in consultation in the development of the full scheme - it is your voices, and your lived experience, that will see this scheme become the nation's leading forced adoptions redress scheme."
The interim scheme applies to a mother who:
- Was a Tasmanian resident and gave birth in Tasmania, at a state-operated hospital, a non-government facility or at home
- Was subject to forced adoption practices prior to the end of 1988 (inclusive); and
- Is currently experiencing an urgent or exceptional need.
Work to progress the full redress scheme continues, and it is expected to commence mid-year.
The full redress scheme will offer nation-leading support for mothers affected by historical forced adoptions, including a redress support package of $75,000 consisting of both a redress payment and provision for psychological and counselling support.
Mothers who wish to apply for an interim redress payment, or who would like to stay updated on the progress of the full scheme, can visit the Department of Justice website or call.
/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).
