[Greens-Media] Greens welcome announcement of the Forced Adoptions Implementation Working Group

[Redman, Chris (Sen R. Siewert)]

5 July 2013

Greens welcome announcement of the Forced Adoptions Implementation Working Group

"I am honoured to be a member of the Forced Adoptions Implementation Working Group and to be able to ensure we build on this year's apology to those affected by past forced adoption practices," Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens spokesperson on families and community services said today.

"A recurring message throughout the Senate Inquiry, and in the personal contact I have had with mothers, fathers, adoptees and families has been the importance of ensuring appropriate services and supports are in place for those who need them.

"The commitment of money for improvements to the accessibility of specialist support, record tracing and mental health services is very welcomed and acts on a number of recommendations made by the Senate Inquiry. It is important that these measures are delivered effectively.

"Through this journey, I've been left in no doubt that each parent, adoptee and family involved in a forced adoption has been affected and have their own needs.

"It will be important for the Working Group to ensure that those varying needs are met and that people are given all the assistance they need," Senator Siewert concluded.

Senator Siewert is Chair of the Senate Community Affairs References Committee which reported on Past forced adoptions practices in 2012 : http://tinyurl.com/pkpk9dx