Today is the first anniversary of the National Apology for Forced Adoptions, which took place on 21st March 2013.

Yesterday, the Senate supported the joint motion moved by Senators Siewert, Moore, Boyce and Fifield commemorating the anniversary, and set aside time for MPs to speak on the Apology.

"It is important to remember the importance and significance of the National Apology, and reflect on the work being done to help those people affected by past adoption practices," Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens spokesperson on families and community services said today.

"I am honoured to be a member of the Forced Adoptions Implementation Working Group and to be able to ensure we build on this year's apology to those affected by past forced adoption practices," Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens spokesperson on families and community services said today.

"A recurring message throughout the Senate Inquiry, and in the personal contact I have had with mothers, fathers, adoptees and families has been the importance of ensuring appropriate services and supports are in place for those who need them.

Senator Rachel Siewert has today warmly welcomed, the formal apology to those affected by past forced adoption practices.

“I am very pleased to have been in Parliament today with all those people who have travelled to Canberra to hear this apology first hand, and I am sure everyone here, and all those watching and listening around the country and overseas are equally as honoured and moved by the day’s events,” Senator Siewert said today.

The Australian Greens have welcomed the Government’s announcement of a Federal Government apology to people affected by past forced adoption practices on the 21st of March next year.

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.

“I have no doubt that this apology will be a significant day for those affected by past adoptions practices, their families and their friends,” Senator Siewert said today.

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.