Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM, MP, said that $8.97 million from the Morrison Government will enable service provider knowmore to offer free support over the phone and face‑to‑face, for the duration of the Scheme to June 2026.
“These dedicated legal and financial services will ensure that Stolen Generations survivors are able to make fully informed decisions about the impact of the receipt of a redress payment for their personal situation,” Minister Wyatt said.
Acting CEO for knowmore, Amanda Whelan, acknowledged the anniversary on 13 February of the Apology to the Stolen Generation, and said the Territories Redress Scheme is another important step towards recognition of past harms inflicted upon members and their descendants. “knowmore is pleased to be providing financial counselling and legal assistance services to people coming forward to apply to the Territories Redress scheme. Thirty two percent of the clients knowmore supports identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. We have a large team of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff, who are ready to assist people coming forward“.
knowmore’s Manager of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Team, Dean Bell, acknowledged how difficult this process will be for many survivors of the Stolen Generation. “I am pleased that knowmore’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Advisors can provide cultural support for those who need it.”
The Scheme will commence on 1st March 2022.