On 23 October 2025, the Tasmanian Government announced a plan to support people affected by historical forced adoptions practices.
These adoptions happened in Tasmania until the 1980s and often involved mothers being pressured to give up their babies due to social and systemic pressures. Many people still feel the emotional effects today.
The new redress scheme, which is being coordinated by the Department of Justice, will offer financial help and counselling to mothers impacted by these practices.
Community voices are important in shaping this scheme. To find out more or provide your feedback on the design of the redress scheme, visit the Department of Justice’s website.
If you have been affected by past adoption practices, specialised support is available by contacting Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277 or the Tasmanian Government’s Adoptions service on (03) 6166 0422.
The Australian Government also funds organisations across Australia for people affected by forced adoptions. To contact a service in any state or territory, call 1800 21 03 13 or visit Forced Adoption | Find and Connect
Other general support services are also available, such as Lifeline and Beyond Blue, and support services for Aboriginal people.
| Relationships Australia | 1300 364 277 | Forced Adoptions Support Service |
| Department for Education, Children and Young People Adoptions Service | (03) 6166 0422 | Tasmanian Government Adoptions Service |
| Lifeline Australia – 24 hour crisis support | 13 11 14 | Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 – Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention. |
| Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre – Aboriginal Health Service | (03) 6234 0777 or Freecall 1800 132 260 | Counselling Services – Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre |
| 13 YARN – 24 hour service for Indigenous Australians | 139 276 | 13YARN – Call 13 92 76 | 24 /7 Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders |