The anniversary of the National Apology to Stolen Generations is a harsh reminder of the trauma and grief inflicted upon Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by past government policies.
On February 13, 2008, then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a historic apology in federal parliament, acknowledging the pain and suffering of the Stolen Generations.
A Day that Mattered: Reflections on the Apology
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese marked the anniversary by saying it was a day “that mattered in the life of our nation.”
He expressed his pride in being part of this momentous occasion, stating it was a day he looks back on with great pride.
Albanese also announced the extension of the Territories Stolen Generations Redress Scheme to June 30, 2028, giving survivors an extra 18 months to apply for compensation.
Unfinished Business: The Ongoing Struggle of Indigenous Children
Despite the apology, the situation remains dire for Indigenous children.
According to Children’s Ground, a First Nations organization, the anniversary is a yearly reminder of the “deep and distressing reality” of ongoing harm and failed policies.
Chair William Tilmouth said that more Indigenous children are being taken into care than ever before, highlighting the need for comprehensive change.
A Watershed Moment: Reconciliation and Truth-Telling
Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine described the apology as a “watershed moment” for reconciliation and truth-telling.
However, she noted that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are still grossly over-represented in the child protection system.
A recent report by the Healing Foundation found that only 6% of the recommendations from the 1997 Bringing Them Home Report have been implemented.
The Need for Action: Implementing Recommendations and Supporting Survivors
The lack of progress in implementing recommendations from the Bringing Them Home Report is a stark reminder of the need for action.
Mundine emphasized that truth-telling must lead to change, and a package of assistance is needed for the remaining elderly survivors of the Stolen Generations.
As we reflect on the anniversary of the National Apology, it is clear that there is still much work to be done to address the ongoing harm and trauma inflicted upon Indigenous communities.
What’s Next: Supporting Indigenous Children and Communities
The extension of the Territories Stolen Generations Redress Scheme is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to support Indigenous children and communities.
We must work towards a future where Indigenous children can grow up safely in their own families and communities, free from the trauma and harm of the past.
It’s time for meaningful action and commitment to reconciliation and truth-telling.