Queensland Parliament to apologise for forced adoptions

The Queensland Parliament will issue a formal apology to people affected by past forced adoption policies and practices in Queensland at Parliament House on Tuesday 27 November 2012.

The historic apology will be made by Premier Campbell Newman, on behalf of the Parliament.

Premier Newman said the policies and practices of forced adoptions by successive Governments were wrong and should never have occurred.

“This is an extremely sad chapter in the State’s history, which has had profound and lifelong impacts for many mothers, fathers, sons, daughters and their families,” Mr Newman said.

“While the past can never be changed, I sincerely hope that hearing the apology will help ease some of the pain of people who have been so deeply affected by this experience.”

Minister for Communities Tracy Davis also said the apology would be a significant day for many people.

“I have met with some of those who have been affected by these past policies and practices and it is important that as a community we come together to recognise the trauma and pain they experienced,” Ms Davis said.

“We want to ensure Queenslanders are aware these practices occurred and that they are never repeated.”

If you would like to attend the apology, please register your interest by visiting www.communities.qld.gov.au or phoning 1800 647 983 (free call within Queensland).

As seating in the Public Gallery is very limited, guests will also be able to view the apology’s live streaming in a dedicated room in the Parliamentary Annexe.

The apology will be made at 12.30pm AEST and people unable to attend the apology can view a live broadcast online at www.communities.qld.gov.au or www.parliament.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 9 November 2012

Media Contact: Minister Davis’ office 3235 4280