23/10/2025

A redress scheme in Tasmania to support those affected by historical forced adoption practices is welcome, says the Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA) but it is important that the compensation offered reflects the gravity of the abuse suffered.

“The abuse that occurred in hospitals, religious organisations and other charities has scarred these women, and their children, for life,” said Greg Barns SC, who has acted for mothers seeking compensation and is a national spokesperson for the ALA.

“We are pleased that the Tasmanian Government has responded to our calls to recognise the hurt and suffering that forced adoption practices caused. The practices that occurred were horrific and, even by the standards of the times, amounted to assaults, duress and other breaches of the law.

“Many mothers who suffered from these adoption practices are now in their 60s and 70s and have been waiting too long already for their suffering to be fully acknowledged.”

The Federal Government delivered a national apology in 2013 to the thousands of unwed mothers who were forced by government policies to give up their babies for adoption and the Victorian Government introduced a redress scheme in 2022.

“Our clients welcome the government’s announcement of a redress scheme for Tasmanian women who were cruelly forced to give up their children,” said Angela Sdrinis, lawyer and ALA member. “I urge the government to move quickly and to act fairly. Our clients are elderly and their trauma has impacted on their mental and physical health. One of our group tragically passed away earlier this year and another is seriously ill.

“Greg Barns SC initiated and led the advocacy for the women affected by forced adoption practices and it is pleasing to see that the Government has listened to his calls for a compassionate and just response.”

ALA members look forward to working with the government, Labor and cross benchers in Tasmania to make sure the scheme is equitable, provides compensation that is just, and is straightforward to access.