CANBERRA – Stolen Generations survivors have gathered in Canberra for the apology anniversary, sharing stories of survival, loss and strength, as governments renewed promises of support.
The gathering was powerful and deeply human—meaning it immediately triggered a familiar institutional response: a podium, a backdrop and the phrase “moving forward” used at least eleven times before morning tea.
A spokesperson said the anniversary is a moment of reflection and recommitment. “We hear you,” they said, holding a document titled Listening Outcomes, which appeared to be blank except for a highlighted sentence: “Continue Listening.”
Survivors spoke about the long aftershocks: families fractured, identity stolen, trauma carried and resilience forged. Many called for practical support that lasts beyond anniversaries -healing services, housing, truth-telling and accountability.
Officials agreed, confirming a new support package will be delivered through a “streamlined pathway” requiring: one form, two references, three proof-of-existence documents and a brief explanation of how you plan to heal “by the end of the financial year”.
A commemorative “working group” was also announced to ensure future anniversaries are “appropriately marked”. The group’s key performance indicator is the number of times it can say “never again” without changing any systems.
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