Published Saturday, 07 June, 2008 at 07:00 AM
Minister for Communities, Disability Services, ATSIP, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors and Youth
The Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr
Redress Scheme extended for children abused in institutions
The closing date for applications for ex-gratia payments under the Redress Scheme for children in Queensland institutions has been extended until 30 September 2008.
Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the Redress Scheme was established to provide ex-gratia payments to people who experienced abuse or neglect in response to the Forde Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions.
“Given the high level of interest in the scheme, the government has extended the closing date by three months, to ensure that as many people as possible have an opportunity to apply,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“The Department of Communities has responded to thousands of enquiries since applications opened last October.
“More than 14,500 application packs have been distributed and more than 5,200 applications have been received by Redress Services.
Ms Nelson-Carr said a panel of experts will be established in July and commence assessing Level 2 payments in August.
“Level 2 payments will be made after the finalisation of all Level 1 payments and after all Level 2 applications have been assessed,” she said.
“The Redress Scheme will offer Level 1 payments of $7,000 to those former residents who experienced abuse or neglect while in care. A second payment of up to $33,000 will be available in cases where evidence of abuse or neglect was more serious.”
Applications the Redress Scheme will now close on 30 September 2008.
Application forms and scheme guidelines can be obtained by calling the Redress Scheme Information Line on 1300 769 291 (Australia wide) from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
Alternatively, application forms can be downloaded from the Department of Communities’ website at www.communities.qld.gov.au
Practical assistance in completing the application form can be obtained by contacting Lotus Place on free call 1800 035 588 (Australia wide) during business hours, Monday to Friday.
Media Contact: Alexia Deegan 0400 767 490
Communities Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the Redress Scheme was established to provide ex-gratia payments to people who experienced abuse or neglect in response to the Forde Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions.
“Given the high level of interest in the scheme, the government has extended the closing date by three months, to ensure that as many people as possible have an opportunity to apply,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.
“The Department of Communities has responded to thousands of enquiries since applications opened last October.
“More than 14,500 application packs have been distributed and more than 5,200 applications have been received by Redress Services.
Ms Nelson-Carr said a panel of experts will be established in July and commence assessing Level 2 payments in August.
“Level 2 payments will be made after the finalisation of all Level 1 payments and after all Level 2 applications have been assessed,” she said.
“The Redress Scheme will offer Level 1 payments of $7,000 to those former residents who experienced abuse or neglect while in care. A second payment of up to $33,000 will be available in cases where evidence of abuse or neglect was more serious.”
Applications the Redress Scheme will now close on 30 September 2008.
Application forms and scheme guidelines can be obtained by calling the Redress Scheme Information Line on 1300 769 291 (Australia wide) from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
Alternatively, application forms can be downloaded from the Department of Communities’ website at www.communities.qld.gov.au
Practical assistance in completing the application form can be obtained by contacting Lotus Place on free call 1800 035 588 (Australia wide) during business hours, Monday to Friday.
Media Contact: Alexia Deegan 0400 767 490