Port Macquarie MP and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Leslie Williams has offered an apology to the stolen generation.
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Mrs Williams’ decision comes after welcoming the release of a report by the parliamentary committee inquiry in reparations for the stolen generations.
Minister Williams said she will work closely with stolen generations members and their representative organisations in giving careful consideration to the report and developing the NSW government’s response to its recommendations.
"I make my own apology to the stolen generations - past government practice had a profound effect on Aboriginal people,” Mrs Williams said.
“Stolen generations survivors have demonstrated exceptional strength and resilience in bringing their experience to light.”
Minister Williams said Aboriginal Affairs NSW is committed to ongoing support for the stolen generations organisations, as they work to advance healing and education.
The Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation and the Coota Girls Aboriginal Corporation continue to receive financial, peer and operational support to aid their work with survivors and promoting stolen generations education and healing.
Aboriginal Affairs NSW is also working with the recently formed Bomaderry Children’s Home Aboriginal Corporation to build their capacity.
In addition, Aboriginal Affairs NSW in partnership with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation, will work alongside interested communities to co-design and convene six Opportunity Choice Healing Responsibility Empowerment (OCHRE) forums.
Aboriginal Affairs is also working with key stakeholders to improve access to family records for Stolen Generations survivors and their families.
“We are committed to listening and working in genuine partnership with Aboriginal people on this complex and sensitive issue,” Mrs Williams said.