More institutions commit to National Redress Scheme

The Australian Government welcomes the announcement that Barnardos Australia and Sydney-based charity Jewish House NSW will join the National Redress Scheme.

Minister for Social Services Dan Tehan said the organisations had demonstrated real leadership and compassion.

“The National Redress Scheme is so important as a way to acknowledge the abuse committed against people in institutional care and to provide them with access to counselling, a payment and an apology,” Mr Tehan said.

“I encourage survivors to find out more about the Scheme and see if it can help them as part of their healing process.”

“I also encourage any non-government institution where abuse occurred to join the National Redress Scheme so as many Australians as possible are covered.”

Barnardos Australia CEO Deirdre Cheers said the organisation welcomed and supported the National Redress Scheme.

“The National Redress Scheme plays an important role in acknowledging harm and providing support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse. Barnardos also remain committed to our current best practice, to ensure all children in our care are safe from abuse.”

Jewish House CEO Rabbi Mendel Kastel OAM said Jewish House has been a strong advocate for the National Redress Scheme.

“Jewish House is at the forefront within the Jewish community when it comes to supporting young people who have gone through child sexual abuse and their families. While we are one of the first Jewish organisations to join the National Redress Scheme, we hope many others will follow suit.”

The National Redress Scheme began on 1 July 2018, offering support and acknowledgement to people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse.

Every state and territory has committed to joining the National Redress Scheme. Non-government institutions are also participating, with many major churches and charities already on board as more organisations continue to join.

For more information visit www.nationalredress.gov.au or call the National Redress Scheme on 1800 737 377 (8am to 5pm Monday to Friday).