The Albanese Labor Government congratulates the Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) on the official opening of major works at the Australian Orphanage Museum today.
The Museum’s purpose is to recognise and educate the community about the neglect and hardship of the children who grew up in orphanages, institutions and children’s homes throughout Australia from the late 19th Century up until the 1980s.
Located in Geelong, Victoria, the Museum is a dedicated place to honour, memorialise, and reflect, displaying the stories of Care Leavers through historical artifacts, exhibits, and memorabilia.
The Museum helps to ensure the authentic social histories about the experience of growing up in orphanages, children’s homes, missions and other institutions are retold and heard.
The Government is proud to have contributed to the establishment and operations of the Museum through $3.1 million in funding to CLAN.
Ahead of the 16th Anniversary of the National Apology to Forgotten Australians and Former Child Migrants, the Australian Government stands with victim-survivors, reflecting on the lasting pain experienced by those who were placed in care.
The Museum re-opening comes days after the announcement of the final design for the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.
More information on the Australian Orphanage Museum is available at http://www.aomuseum.com.au.
Support is available 24/7 for anyone who is experiencing emotional distress on the National Redress Scheme website.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek:
“While this was a terrible chapter in Australia’s history, it is important to create an environment where we can share stories, encourage deep reflection, and remember.
“We can’t change the past, but we can ensure it doesn’t happen again. The Museum stands as a reminder of the courage and resilience of those who experienced unimaginable harm in institutions meant to protect them.
“It’s fantastic to see this museum finally have a permanent home – it’s a reflection of CLAN’s great work and advocacy.
“I want to thank CLAN, the Clannies, and particularly CEO Leonie Sheedy for all the work that has gone into making this Museum a reality.”