A fairer system:

The emergence of government redress schemes for Indigenous Australians is a symbol of progress towards reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia. 

Furthermore, the practical importance of such schemes as a means of obtaining redress cannot be overstated given the significant challenges members of the Stolen Generations face in attempting to obtain redress through the courts. This is highlighted by the fact that there has only been one successful court claim for compensation by a member of the Stolen Generations against an Australian Government and to date, no successful court claims for Stolen Wages. 

This submission looks at the achievements and shortcomings of government redress schemes for Indigenous Australians. It discusses the legal principles which must guide the operation of such schemes to ensure that they are effective, transparent and afford procedural fairness to participants.