What is the Victorian Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse scheme?
There are more than 90,000 children who were placed in institutional care in Victoria before 1990. Many of these children experienced harm and carry that trauma and grief with them as adults, at times leading to poverty and homelessness.
The Victorian Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse scheme is for Victorians who experienced physical, psychological or emotional abuse or neglect in orphanages, children’s homes and missions before 1990.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible, people need to meet the following criteria:
- lived as a child (before the age of 18) in a Victorian institution for at least 6 months (in total) before 1 January 1990
- experienced physical, psychological, or emotional abuse or neglect in the Victorian institution.
What does the scheme do?
The Victorian Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse scheme acknowledges the trauma of abuse and neglect. The scheme includes payments of $20,000, access to up to 20 counselling sessions, and a personal acknowledgement or apology from responsible institutions.
How do I apply?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to fill in the form below so we can assist with further information or support. (First name and phone number required.) You can also email redress@vacca.org.
To find out more or for non-Indigenous applications: Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse - DFFH Services
The scheme will be open until 31 December 2026.
If this content brings up distressing memories or emotions for you, please consider reaching out to family, friends or a confidential services for mental health and wellbeing support. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can contact Yarning Safe’n’Strong on 1800 959 563 or 13YARN on 13 92 76.
Conflict of interest
VACCA acknowledges its involvement in historical institutional abuse. VACCA confirms its commitment to deliver high-quality and independent services. VACCA has a policy for conflict of interest as it relates to Redress and procedures for managing actual and perceived conflicts of interest. VACCA is compliant with Child Safe Standards and information management processes as it relates to Redress.