About our service

We offer free support  for Forgotten Australians who are applying for, or thinking of applying for, redress through the National Redress Scheme.

Our service aims to help make the process as accessible and stress-free as possible.

If you have any questions about the application process, get stuck with the form, or have other challenges that are making it hard to apply, please send us an online enquiry or phone 1800 779 379 and ask to talk to our National Redress Scheme support team.

Contact us

What is the National Redress Scheme?

The National Redress Scheme is the Australian Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

It offers 3 types of Redress:

  • access to counselling
  • a Redress scheme payment
  • a Direct Personal Response (an apology) from the institution/s responsible for the abuse.

 

Who can apply?

You can apply if you:

  • experienced institutional child sexual abuse before 1 July 2018, and
  • are aged over 18 or will turn 18 before 30 June 2028, and
  • are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and
  • are applying about an institution that has joined the National Redress Scheme, and
  • apply between 1 July 2018 and 30 June 2027.

 

How do I apply?

You can apply for the Scheme  any time before 30 June 2027, by filling in an ‘Application for Redress’ form.

A person called an Independent Decision Maker will consider your application and make suggestions for Redress.

 

Where can I find out more?

The National Redress Scheme’s website www.nationalredress.gov.au provides lots of resources including information about how to apply and links to free legal advice and support services.

You can also phone the National Redress Scheme helpline on 1800 737 377 between 8am and 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday.

More about our services

Richmond Drop-In

Meet up with other Forgotten Australians, use computers and facilities, get support, share a meal and take part in group activities. Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Records searches and family reunions

Our Records, Find & Connect team can support you to access records from your time ‘in care’ and to search for family members.

Health support

Open Place receives annual funding from the Victorian Government to support Forgotten Australians in meeting costs related to your health needs.

Counselling

Talk privately with a trained professional who can listen, offer support, advice, and share new ways of thinking about any challenges that you’re facing.

Coordinated support

We provide information, referral, casework and advocacy to help Forgotten Australians to improve your health and wellbeing.

Social support groups

Join our monthly meet-ups to talk about shared interests and take part in group activities and events designed to support your health and wellbeing.

Community education

We are committed to raising community awareness about the challenges faced by Forgotten Australians, with the aim of improving your access to services.

Events and activities

Upcoming Drop-In activities and other events for Forgotten Australians organised by Open Place.