[Greens-Media] Anniversary of forced adoption apology highlights need for services

[Richards, Kirsten]

Hon Alison Xamon MLC, Greens Spokesperson for Women and Children, today marked the one year anniversary of the WA Parliament apology to women who were forced to give up their babies for adoption, by again calling for more funding and support for victims. 

Ms Xamon said that while the apology provided important recognition of the trauma suffered by those vulnerable women, one year on the people affected still needed support, compassion and understanding. 

"My continuing discussions with women affected by forced adoption have shown me firsthand the profound impact that these practices have had, and continue to have, on their lives." 

"The Western Australian parliament led the nation as the first State to formally say sorry to these women. I call on the Government to continue its leadership in this area by boosting support services for those seeking information or reunification, as well as those individuals experiencing ongoing trauma as a result of these appalling practices", said Ms Xamon. 

"The government has a moral obligation to provide important specialist services. While some people may access DCP (Department of Child Protection) services, for other people independent services are more appropriate than seeking help from the very Government institutions that traumatised them in the first place. This means it is essential that the Government adequately funds services like those provided by the not for profit groups Jigsaw and ARCS," said Ms Xamon. 

Ms Xamon said she also looked forward to the report of the Senate Community Affairs Reference Committee inquiry into the Commonwealth Contribution to Former Forced Adoption Policies and Practices, which is due to be released on 21 November 2011. 

"The inquiry report should provide more recognition of the impact of these practices across the country". 

"Already the inquiry has received 334 submissions, which is a clear indication of how significant and widespread the impacts of these practices have been," said Ms Xamon. 

The closing date for submissions is 31 October.