Greens compensation Inquiry Supported by Senate
Media Release | Spokesperson Rachel Siewert
Thursday 4th February 2010, 10:47am
The Australian Greens today moved to establish a Senate Inquiry to improve the system of compensating Australians harmed by past government policies.
"There is currently a great level of inconsistency and inequality when it comes to providing compensation and reparations in Australia," Greens community services spokesperson, Senator Rachel Siewert said today.
"The Greens are concerned about the large variations across the nation, and want to ensure appropriate, consistent and just recompense for those harmed by past policies, such as members of the Stolen Generation and Forgotten Australian and former child migrants.
"We hope this committee inquiry will lead to a better and fairer process for all Australians subjected to harm - be it from direct government policies, legislation or unlawful actions.
"The failure of Australian Governments to properly compensate those scarred and disadvantaged by the practices of past governments remains a stain on the soul of our nation.
"I'm very pleased that this motion was supported by the Senate and look forward to the Inquiry getting underway," Senator Siewert concluded.
Media Contact: Fernando de Freitas 0417 174 302

