Message from the Minister

On 17 December 2007, the State Government announced a $114 million redress scheme, to be known as Redress WA, for those who as children were abused while in State care in Western Australia. The State Government deeply regrets that abuse has taken place.

Key priorities of Redress WA will include an apology and acknowledgement to those who in the past have suffered when the State did not provide a proper level of care.

Many people continue to suffer as a result of the abuse they experienced as children in State care. To assist them, including with the distress associated with the process of making an application under Redress WA, a range of support services including personal support, financial counselling and independent legal advice will be made available, as well as funding of non-government consumer advocacy and self-help groups.

In some cases, those who perpetrated the abuse may not have been brought to justice. As part of the process, cases may be referred to the Police for investigation.

Money cannot make up for the abuse some people suffered in State care. However, the experience of abuse may have resulted in missed opportunities in life, together with emotional pain and suffering. It is appropriate therefore, that some ex gratia payment is made available.

Eligible individuals will be able to apply for an ex gratia redress payment. Applicants who are eligible will receive an ex gratia payment of up to $10 000 if they show they experienced abuse while in State care, or up to a maximum of $80 000 where there is medical or psychological evidence of loss or injury as a result of that abuse.

Individuals who do not wish to pursue civil litigation against the State are eligible to apply to Redress WA.

A prominent and permanent memorial will be established to acknowledge those who have suffered in State care in the past. On a personal level, people will be given the opportunity to formally record their own stories on their official files.

Applications to Redress WA open for 12 months from 1 May 2008 and must be lodged by 30 April 2009.

For further information contact the Redress WA information line on 1800 617 233.

Sue Ellery Minister for Communities