The NSW Stolen Generations Reparations Scheme started on 1 July 2017 and closed for applications on 30 June 2023. However, Aboriginal Affairs have been accepting applications since 30 June 2023 where there are special circumstances. They are unlikely to accept applications after 1 April 2024, even where there are special circumstances.
Aboriginal Affairs are still accepting appeals of negative decisions.
Reparations are a payment from the government to recognise the hurt caused when you were removed from your family.
You may be able to get reparations if you were:
- removed from your family or apprenticed,
- by some NSW government agencies, and
- this happened before 2 June 1969.
Not all people who were removed by a NSW government agency can get reparations.
If you are not sure, talk to a lawyer.
You could get:
- a payment of up to $75,000, and
- $7,000 to help pay for your funeral costs.
To get the application form:
- call Aboriginal Affairs on 1800 019 998. They can send it to you and help you fill it out, or
- download it at Aboriginal Affairs NSW - Reparations Scheme
You can ask for a review. You can get a lawyer to help you.
You don’t need a lawyer to fill out the form – but a lawyer can help.
Talk to a lawyer at Legal Aid NSW or your local Community Legal Centre. This is free and confidential.
You can call:
- Law Access NSW to find your local Community Legal Centre 1300 888 529, or
- Legal Aid NSW 1800 793 017
They can also talk to you about other things you might need to think about like getting a will and planning ahead.
- Financial counsellors can help with budgets, fines or debts and how to keep your money safe – call 1800 007 007.
- Make a will. If you die without a will, your money and other stuff may not go to who you want. The Law Society of NSW can do wills for Stolen Generations survivors for free or less money – call (02) 9926 0396
- Link-Up NSW can help reunite you with family members and can find you a counsellor – call 1800 624 332.
- If you were in Coota, Kinchela, or Bomaderry you can get in contact with survivors of these places. Link-Up NSW may be able to help you with this.
- Call your local Aboriginal Medical Service
Where can I get more help?
| Organisation | Information | Contact details |
|---|---|---|
| Law Access NSW | Provides free telephone legal information and referrals to other services, including to your nearest Legal Aid NSW office, Community Legal Centres, private lawyers and other organisations that can help. | Chat to our team by clicking on 'Chat with us' on the right or by calling 1300 888 529 Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm. |