Northern Territory joins National Redress Scheme

The Federal Government welcomes today’s announcement that the Northern Territory Government will join the National Redress Scheme.

Final policy details have been agreed between the Federal Government and the Northern Territory Government.

This will allow the survivors of institutional child sexual abuse in Northern Territory Government institutions to access counselling, a direct personal response from the institution and a monetary payment.

“Chief Minister Michael Gunner and Attorney-General Natasha Fyles have shown true leadership by opting into the National Redress Scheme and acknowledging the abuse suffered in institutions,” Mr Tehan said.

“Providing survivors of institutional child sexual abuse with the support they deserve is an absolute priority for the Northern Territory Government,” Ms Fyles said.

“We have worked with the Federal Government to make sure the National Redress Scheme works in the unique context of the Northern Territory. I’d like to thank Minister Tehan for supporting the Northern Territory and for his commitment to Territory survivors,” Ms Fyles said.

New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, the ACT, Tasmania, South Australia and the Commonwealth have already committed to the National Redress Scheme.

Earlier this month the Federal Government introduced legislation to establish the National Scheme, which will start on 1 July subject to the passage of the legislation.

Governments and institutions must take responsibility for the abuse that happened on their watch, and provide payment and support in recognition of the survivors.

The Turnbull Government continues to work constructively with the Western Australian Government and non-government institutions to encourage them to opt into the Redress Scheme.