Could you be eligible for a government reparations payment? Read on to find out.
If you were removed from home in NSW
You may be eligible for reparations if you were removed from your family or came into the care of some NSW government agencies before 2 June 1969.
If you are eligible, you could get up to $75,000 plus $7,000 for your funeral costs. You may also get a personal apology from a representative of the NSW Government, if requested. Not everyone who was removed by a NSW government agency is eligible for reparations.
You must apply before 30 June 2023. To find out if you are eligible and to apply, please call Aboriginal Affairs on 1800 019 998 or Legal Aid NSW on 1800 793 017.
More information and the application form are available from Aboriginal Affairs NSW: https://www.aboriginalaffairs.nsw.gov.au/healing-and-reparations/stolen-generations/reparations-scheme/
If you were removed from home in the ACT
You may be eligible for reparations if you were removed as a child from your family or community in the Australian Capital Territory before 11 May 1989.
If you are eligible, you may receive a redress payment of up to $75,000; a healing assistance payment of $7,000; and if you wish, a Personal Acknowledgement. Not everyone who was removed by a Territory government agency is eligible for reparations.
You can apply up until 28 February 2026. More information and the application form are available from Territories Redress: https://territoriesredress.gov.au/resources
Who to contact for help and questions about applying:
- To find out if you are eligible, please contact [email protected] or call 1800 566 111.
- For independent legal advice and financial counselling, you can contact knowmore Legal Services on 1800 566 966 or visit their website.
Where to get support
Reading and talking about your experiences as a Stolen Generations survivor can bring up difficult memories. There is 24-hour support available if you need help or just someone to yarn with.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.
If there is no immediate danger, get in touch with 13YARN on 13 92 76; Lifeline on 13 11 14; Beyond Blue on 1300 244 636; or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
Further resources
The following resources are available from Legal Aid NSW:
