November 2024

Relationships Australia Tasmania invite the Tasmanian media to attend a significant event commemorating the 15-year anniversary of the National Apology to Forgotten Australians held at and in partnership with the Goodwood Neighbourhood House at 10am, Thursday, November 14.

The event will feature speeches from stakeholders, a musical performance by a local artist and a community lunch, allowing for connections and conversations.

Relationships Australia Tasmania Adult Specialist Support Services Counsellor Eliza Hart says the event will provide an opportunity to recognise the significance of the apology and the ongoing advocacy and achievements of those with lived experience.

“This event is not only a moment of reflection, but also a celebration of resilience and the ongoing journey toward healing for those affected. We invite the community to join us in honouring their stories and recognising the strength that has emerged from such profound adversity.” Ms Hart said.

The apology, delivered by then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in 2009, acknowledged the injustices faced by an estimated 500,000 children who were placed in out-of-home care or Australian institutions. “A Senate Inquiry into these forced child removal practices found many of the removals unnecessary, there was widespread separation and displacement from family and community, and conditions were unacceptable,” Ms. Hart added. “We hope that by educating and shining a light on these experiences, we can reduce the likelihood of such abuses happening in the future.”

WHAT: Commemorating the 15^th Anniversary of the National Apology to Forgotten Australians
WHERE: Goodwood Community Centre – 20 Acton Crescent, Goodwood
WHEN: Media interviews will take place between 11am – 11:30am

Special Note: Forgotten Australian David Henderson and Relationships Australia Tasmania Adult Specialist Support Services Counsellor Eliza Hart will be available for media interview.

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Media Contact: A.Mark Thomas, M&M Communications, 0422 006 732

About Relationships Australia Tasmania

At Relationships Australia Tasmania we provide families, couples, individuals, older people, children and communities with tools and strategies, so that they have healthy, positive lives. We help more than 8000 Tasmanians every year to transform and change their lives through counselling, mediation, dispute resolution, support and training.

Our focus is on:

• healthy relationships, conflict resolution, parenting, cultural issues and mental health
• We offer people the services and support they need, when they need it to assist them when life presents challenges.
• Services are available to all people regardless of cultural background, family structure, economic situation, religious beliefs, gender or sexual orientation.

More information about the services and support we offer can be found on our website www.tas.relationships.com.au