The Australian Greens have welcomed today’s apology from the ACT Government to people affected by past forced adoption practices.

Senator Rachel Siewert, Greens spokesperson on Families and Community Services, chaired the Senate Inquiry into Forced Adoptions which recommended that apologies be made at a state, territory and federal level.

“It is great to see the ACT Government taking this important step to recognise the pain caused by forced adoptions and apologise for it,” Senator Siewert said today.

“The importance and value of an apology was mentioned again and again to us during the Senate Inquiry. A great many mothers, children and other family members identified it as an important part of their healing process.

“The ACT now joins WA and South Australia as states to have issued a formal apology.

“With Victoria and Tasmania planning apologies and the Federal Government forming a reference group to advise on the nature of a national apology, progress is encouraging.

“It is also important to consider the additional steps that the Committee recommended, in addition to an apology, such as measures to provide reconnection services, counselling and support to those affected.

“An apology is a strong starting point, and we’re looking for state and federal governments to build on that,” Senator Siewert concluded.