Forced adoption—or forced family separation—occurred predominantly in Australia from the 1950s to the 1980s, causing profound and lasting trauma. At Foye Legal, we provide compassionate and expert legal support to survivors, helping them seek compensation, acknowledgment, and justice. In these deeply personal and sensitive matters, the right lawyer is everything for achieving the best outcome in challenging times.
You may be eligible to make a claim if you:
Many women and their partners endured harsh and dehumanizing treatment, including:
This traumatic treatment has left many survivors with long-lasting emotional and physical scars.
The Long-Term Impact of Forced Adoption
Forced adoption has caused a range of lifelong challenges for survivors, including:
While no amount of compensation can undo the harm caused, a successful claim can help provide:
Financial Compensation: Covering:
The timing of a claim varies depending on individual circumstances and the type of claim being pursued. Recent legal reforms, including the removal of statute of limitations and injury thresholds, make it easier for survivors to seek justice.
At Foye Legal, we work diligently to ensure your case is handled with sensitivity and efficiency, giving you the best chance for a positive outcome.
We are committed to supporting people across the Illawarra, Sydney and beyond with expert legal advice, ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Eligibility for historical sexual abuse compensation
You may be eligible for compensation if:
You can pursue compensation even if:
You have the right to seek justice and compensation for the abuse you endured. Foye Legal provides dedicated legal advocacy, empowering survivors of institutional abuse to reclaim their lives. We are committed to ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Let us fight for you – contact us for a confidential consultation.
Seeking legal assistance early gives you control over your situation, helping you avoid complications and manage costs effectively. This guide provides practical tips, checklists, and key insights to help you confidently navigate legal processes to secure the best possible outcome.
Your first consultation is vital in safeguarding your interests and laying the foundation for the best possible outcome. At Foye Legal, we value the trust you place in us and are committed to providing clarity, strategy and unwavering support from day one.
Forced adoption refers to the historical practice, predominantly between the 1950s and 1980s, where babies were taken from their unmarried mothers without proper consent and placed for adoption. These practices were often unethical, immoral, and sometimes illegal, leading to lifelong trauma for both the parents and the adopted children.
Those affected include:
The Australian Government funds several organizations to provide specialized support services across the country. These services offer counseling, assistance in accessing records, and support groups. A national helpline is available at 1800 21 03 13, operating weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm.
Yes, individuals affected by forced adoption can request access to their adoption records. The process varies by state and territory, and support services can assist in navigating the requirements to obtain these records.
While there is no national compensation scheme, some states have established funds to support those affected. For example, Victoria has created an interim Forced Adoption Exceptional Circumstances Fund, offering discretionary payments to eligible individuals. It’s advisable to consult with legal professionals to explore potential entitlements.
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3/1 MEMORIAL DRIVE SHELLHARBOUR CITY NSW 2529
LEVEL 3, 63 MARKET STREET WOLLONGONG NSW 2500
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3/1 MEMORIAL DRIVE SHELLHARBOUR CITY NSW 2529
LEVEL 3, 63 MARKET STREET WOLLONGONG NSW 2500
contact us to make an appointment
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