The National Redress Scheme aims to provide survivors with recognition, support, and a path toward healing. The Scheme was established in response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. If you have experienced institutional child* sexual abuse, you may be eligible to seek support through this scheme. If the institution responsible (such as a Catholic Diocese or Religious Order) is part of the scheme, survivors can apply for redress under this scheme until 30 June 2027.
If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t hesitate to reach out to access the services and support available.
*A child is a person between the ages of 0 to 17 years of age. That means you were under the age of 18 years when the abuse occurred
Support for Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse
Who is Eligible?
The National Redress Scheme is available for people who:
- experienced sexual abuse when they were a child (under 18 years old)
- were abused in an institution that joined the Scheme
- are an Australian citizen or permanent resident
How to Access Services:
- Contact: Get in touch with the National Redress Scheme by phone, email, or online form.
- Application: Fill out an application form either online or by requesting a paper copy.
- Support: If you need assistance, support services are available to help with your application process.
- Assessment: Your application will be assessed, and you will be informed of the outcome.
- Options: If your application is approved, you can choose to receive a redress payment, access counselling, and participate in a direct personal response.
Need assistance applying for the scheme?
If you would like assistance applying for redress under the National Redress Scheme, or are just wanting to understand the scheme better, Knowmore can provide free, confidential, and independent legal advice via their advice line 1800 605 762.
Direct Personal Response
Have you received an offer of redress and requested a direct personal response (DPR)? When you feel ready to do so, you will need to make the first contact with the person nominated to arrange your direct personal response. For assistance, you can reach out to the Office of Safeguarding by calling (02) 8838 3419 or completing the form below.
Access Healing and Support Services
The process of recounting past trauma for the purpose of the National Redress Scheme can pose a challenge for many people dealing with the trauma of abuse. The Diocese of Parramatta offers a therapeutic case management service for those affected by childhood sexual abuse or any other abuse perpetrated by a person or persons working for the church in the Diocese of Parramatta. The Healing & Support Team can also walk you through the National Redress Scheme process. To access this service, please contact the Office of Safeguarding at (02) 8838 3419 or complete the form below.
