Media Statement
4 January 2021
VACCA has been declared a participating institution in the National Redress Scheme. The Scheme and the instrument has been registered as National Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse Amendment (2020 Measures No. 20) Declaration 2020.
VACCA officially joined the National Redress Scheme as a participating institution 25 December 2020, to ensure that any person who may have suffered any form of sexual abuse while in VACCA’s care can seek redress through a fair, transparent and independent process.
The National Redress Scheme, which started 1 July 2018 provides support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse and will run for 10 years.
VACCA believes that all children have a right to feel and be safe and to live in an environment that is free from abuse, neglect and violence. We are committed to promoting and upholding the right of Aboriginal children to maintain and celebrate their identity and culture, recognising that connection to culture is critical for children’s emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
VACCA CEO Muriel Bamblett said that VACCA’s participation in the National Redress Scheme will provide greater accountability and support for the community to understand more about the Scheme.
“We understand that for the community impacted by abuse it will have caused immense trauma both for them and their families, we recognise that having to tell their story will be distressing,” she said.
“VACCA’s participation ensures we can provide information for anyone abused while in VACCA's care, as well as providing further information on the process in applying and what supports are available to community.”
ENDS
For more information visit VACCA's page on the National Redress Scheme
Contacting the National Redress Scheme
The Scheme started on 1 July 2018 and will run for 10 years.
Access and apply via the National Redress Scheme by visiting www.nationalredress.gov.au or calling 1800 737 377 (call charges may apply)
Applications can be made any time before 30 June 2027
How to Access support
Revisiting the events of the past may be distressing for people as they apply for redress.
Free and confidential Redress Support Services are available through the National Redress Scheme to help you.
They can support you before, during and after you apply for redress. Services can provide practical and emotional support, legal advice, and financial counselling.
If you need immediate support, 24-hour telephone assistance is available through:
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Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
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Lifeline: 13 11 14
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Yarning SafeNStrong: 1800 95 95 63