First Anniversary of the National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

The National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse has been inscribed on a vellum to ensure the voice of victims and survivors is forever heard.

To mark the first anniversary of the National Apology Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston will today unveil the tribute that will be on permanent display at Parliament House.

“The vellum will serve as a tangible reminder of the never-to-be forgotten stories of the victims and survivors of child sexual abuse in Australian institutions,” Minister Ruston said.

“As difficult and painful as it is to remember these stories it is important that we make sure the trauma suffered never happens again.

“Without the strength of survivors this country may have never been able to come to terms with the awful truth about the abuse perpetrated against young Australians in institutions.”

The National Apology recognises the appalling abuse inflicted on an estimated 60,000 children by those entrusted to care for them.

Minister Ruston also announced a further $11.7 million to be invested in the National Redress Scheme to support two significant changes to improve its operation to better support survivors.

“The investment will reduce the number of different people a survivor may be required to deal with while their application is processed and allow us to hire more independent decision makers to finalise applications as quickly as possible,” she said.

Visit www.childabuseroyalcommissionresponse.gov.au/national-apology for more information on the National Apology.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. For sexual assault counselling services call lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyondblue on 1300 224 636.