PIAC has worked for decades alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to seek justice for members of the Stolen Generations. This has included advocating for a reparations scheme.
In late June 2016 a Standing Committee of the NSW Legislative Council tabled its report on reparations for the stolen generations, unanimously recommending a range of measures including the establishment of a reparations scheme. The report followed an inquiry by the Committee, to which PIAC made a substantial submission and gave oral evidence. PIAC’s submission was cited 86 times in the final report.
In addition to our submissions, PIAC supported the work of the Standing Committee by holding a submission-writing workshop and a well-attended community forum.
The forum brought together Aboriginal community leaders, members of Parliament and members of the Stolen Generations to discuss how best to make amends for the devastating impact of past laws and policies on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Held at NSW Parliament House, a panel debated key issues and addressed questions from an audience of more than 70 people.
PIAC has cautiously welcomed the recommendations of the Standing Committee, emphasising the need for the reparations scheme to be established without further delay.
PIAC also briefed South Australian Members of Parliament, ahead of the announcement of their state-based reparations scheme in late 2015.