National Redress Scheme - Update

The update gives an update on the National Redress Scheme (the Scheme). It covers the launch of new Scheme resources, a second anniversary review update and recent data.

The update contains material that could be confronting or distressing. Sometimes words or images can cause sadness or distress or trigger traumatic memories, particularly for people who have experienced past abuse or childhood trauma.

Support is available to help you if you need it. To find out more, go to www.nationalredress.gov.au/support.

If you need immediate support, 24-hour telephone assistance is available through:

This month, the Scheme launched new resources to provide key information for applicants, potential applicants and their supporters in an easier to understand format.

Three videos are now available covering the topics: 'Scheme overview', 'Applying to the Scheme' and 'Direct Personal Responses'. The videos are each under 10 minutes in length.

An updated Easy Read Fact Sheet is also available, providing information on the Scheme in easy to read language.

In addition to the new videos and fact sheets, details about and support, free, confidential Redress Support Services that are available in all states and territories.

Second anniversary review update

Ms Robyn Kruk AO, the independent reviewer, who is undertaking the second year review into how the Scheme is working for survivors and other stakeholders has written an open letter which you can read on our website.

You can choose to make a submission and/or participate in a feedback study (available throughout October). Submissions are open until 30 September 2020 and you can make your submission on our website.

Application progress as at 4 September 2020, details below.

Application progress as at 4 September 2020

As of 4 September 2020, the Scheme:

  • had received 7,935 applications
  • had made 4275 decisions, including 3,498 payments totaling approximately $286.6 million
  • had made 561 offers of redress, which are currently with applicants to consider
  • was processing 3,187 applications.

Find out more

To find out more about the Scheme, go to www.nationalredress.gov.au or call 1800 737 377 from Australia or +61 3 6222 3455 from overseas.