Five years on: Apology to the Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants

Today marks the fifth anniversary of the Apology to the Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants.

The Anniversary is an important milestone for many of the more than 500,000 Australians who experienced abuse, mistreatment and neglect while in out-of-home care during the last century.

It is equally important for 7,000 children from the United Kingdom and Malta who were lied to about their families when they were deported to live in Australia.

The National Apology recognised the profound grief and suffering experienced by so many children who did not receive the care they deserved.

They were denied a proper education, love and care when they were severed from their family connections, identity, culture and community.

The Australian Government understands that many of those affected continue to face a range of complex issues, including mental and physical illness, and educational and family relationship difficulties as a result of years of abuse and neglect.

We remain committed to supporting Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants to access records, find family members, and to never repeat the mistakes of the past.

For information, including links to support services visit: http://www.findandconnect.gov.au/