MacKillop Family Services (“MacKillop”) today announced it has committed to join the National Redress Scheme, established by the Commonwealth Government in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
The National Redress Scheme provides acknowledgement and support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse in Australia. It provides an alternative to seeking compensation through the courts.
The National Redress Scheme – which commenced on 1 July 2018 and will run for 10 years – can provide three key things to applicants:
- access to counselling;
- a payment; and
- a direct personal response from the institution (e.g. an apology) for people who want it.
MacKillop – which was established on 1 July 1997 – is working with the administrators of the Scheme to establish the processes and systems required to support people who experienced abuse whilst in its care to apply for redress.
People wishing to make an application can do so now using an online or paper form. To apply, or to seek further information about the Scheme, please go to www.nationalredress.gov.au or call the National Redress Scheme on 1800 737 377 (Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, except public holidays - charges may apply).
Free and confidential Redress Support Services are available throughout the process to help explain the Scheme and who can apply.
If you or someone you know needs emotional support, you can also contact these services:
- Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect 1800 737 732
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Mensline 1300 78 99 78
- In an emergency call triple zero (000)
