Queensland and Northern Territory join National Redress Scheme

The National Redress Scheme continues to grow with the Queensland and Northern Territory governments completing the final steps required to participate in the Scheme.

Federal Minister for Families and Social Services Paul Fletcher said the National Redress Scheme can provide support and acknowledgement to people who experienced child sexual abuse in institutions.

“Queensland and the Northern Territory will join New South Wales, Victoria, Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania in participating in the National Redress Scheme,” said Minister Fletcher.

“I encourage the remaining states, along with non-government institutions, to work quickly and make the Scheme accessible to survivors throughout Australia.”

The National Redress Scheme has received more than 1,800 applications and has begun making offers and payments.

Queensland Minister for Child Safety, Di Farmer, said the Scheme would commence in Queensland on 19 November, 2018.

“This is an important milestone for people who were sexually abused as children in Queensland institutions, and for the estimated 10,000 Queenslanders who are estimated to be eligible for the Scheme,” Minister Farmer said.

Northern Territory Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Natasha Fyles, said providing support to survivors of institutional child sexual abuse is a priority and the Scheme would begin in the Territory on 16 November, 2018.

“The National Redress Scheme can provide counselling, a direct personal response from the responsible institution for people who want it, and a redress payment. For many, it will be the recognition and help they have been waiting for,” said Minister Fyles.

To find out more about the National Redress Scheme visit www.nationalredress.gov.au or call 1800 737 377.