Applications for the Victorian Government’s Historical Forced Adoptions Redress Scheme for mothers will close on 31 January 2028.
Many mothers were separated from their babies through historical forced adoption policies and practices that caused deep and lasting trauma. The Victorian Government established this scheme to provide finanical redress and support to mothers impacted by these practices and deliver on a key recommendation of the Inquiry into Responses to Historical Forced Adoptions in Victoria.
Applications have been open since March 2024 and will close on 31 January 2028.
Who is eligible?
The scheme is open to mothers who:
- gave birth in Victoria, or were a Victorian resident but gave birth interstate, and
- were forcibly separated from their newborn babies soon after birth and prior to 1990.
The scheme will not accept applications on behalf of mothers who have already passed away.
Unfortunately, adopted people are not eligible for redress at this time. Despite initially indicating “support in principle” following the 2021 Inquiry into Responses to Historical Forced Adoptions in Victoria, the Government decided not to establish a redress scheme for adoptees. VANISH continues to advocate for ongoing support and recognition for all parties impacted by adoption.
What the scheme offers:
- A one-off payment in recognition of harm ($30,000 for eligible applicants)
- Access to counselling and psychological support
- An apology or personalised response (available later in 2026)
- Information and referrals to other support services
What if I wouldn’t describe my experience as ‘forced’ adoption?
‘Forced adoption’ is a term used by the Victorian Government to describe a wide range of past adoption practices, not only situations where a baby was physically removed against an explicit refusal.
During the 1950s through to the 1980s, unmarried mothers were routinely pressured or coerced to give up their children to avoid the shame and stigma associated with pregnancy outside marriage. Babies were taken from their mothers without informed consent. The vast majority of adoptions during this era involved some combination of social pressure, institutional coercion, or lack of genuine choice.
Forced adoption practices often occurred in an institution, such as a hostel or hospital. Practices included:
- sending mothers to maternity homes with harsh conditions
- forcibly restraining mothers when they gave birth
- immediately separating mothers from their newborn babies
- pressuring or coercing mothers into signing consent forms.
The Victorian Government itself acknowledges that the term ‘forced adoption’ may not resonate with everyone, and that not all mothers’ experiences resulted in adoption. You do not need to use this language to describe your own story. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for the scheme, we encourage you to contact VANISH or the Redress Scheme team to talk through your situation.
How to apply
Step 1: Contact the scheme
You can phone 1300 217 425, email forcedadoptions.redress@justice.vic.gov.au, or start an online application at vic.gov.au/redress-forced-adoptions.
You can have a support person or advocate with you, and you do not need a lawyer to apply to the scheme.
Step 2: Submit application
Submit an application either by post or email. The scheme can obtain documents on your behalf. Applications close 31 January 2028.
Step 3: Assessment and outcome
Your application will be assessed against the eligibility criteria.
You will be informed about the outcome and any payment or support available. You can only make one application to the scheme. The scheme cannot accept applications on behalf of mothers who have passed away.
Questions and support
The Redress Scheme support team is available to guide you through the application process, answer questions, and assist you with any supporting information that may be required. To find out if you are eligible or to talk about your options:
Free call: 1300 217 425, 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday
Website: vic.gov.au/redress-forced-adoptions
Email: forcedadoptions.redress@justice.vic.gov.au
Interpreter services are available.
Stay connected with the VOICE
Sign up to receive the VANISH VOICE, our bi-monthly newsletter filled with information and updates, personal stories, invitations to VANISH events, and more.