12th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations

On 13 February 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made a formal apology to Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly to the Stolen Generations whose lives had been profoundly affected by past government policies of forced child removal and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander assimilation.

Today reminds us that without ongoing recognition, reconciliation and reparation, the healing journey for the Survivors of the Stolen Generations cannot continue.

"We apologise for the laws and policies of successive Parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians. We apologise especially for the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, their communities and their country.”

— Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, 13 February 2008

To learn more about the journey that lead to the National Apology, including the Bringing The Home report, which provided much of the groundwork for the apology, visit Defining Moments: National Apology

At Life Without Barriers, today is an important date for us. It is a time where we reflect on our role in providing the best possible care and outcomes for children in family-based care, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Our work in this space is guided by our Reconciliation Action Plan, and we are passionate about continuing to grow the reach of our RAP and provide even better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.