Child sexual abuse is when someone involves a person under the age of 18 in sexual activities.

Child sexual abuse may include, but is not limited to:

• sexual touching of any kind to any part of the body clothed or unclothed
• preparing or encouraging a child to engage in sexual activity
• sex of any kind with a child
• sexual acts committed by a person of any gender against a child of any gender

An institution is any body, entity, group of persons or organisation.

Some examples of institutions are:

• churches, parishes, missions
• orphanages, children’s homes, group homes, foster care
• schools, boarding schools
• sporting clubs
• youth groups
• detention centres
• welfare services
• charities

You can apply to the Scheme if:

• you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• you experienced child sexual abuse while in the care of an institution before 1 July 2018
• the child sexual abuse happened before you turned 18
• you are 18 or you will turn 18 before 30 June 2028
• you apply before 30 June 2027

We will provide you with information about how the National Redress Scheme works.

We can assist you with gathering the relevant information required to make your application and can assist you to complete and lodge your application.

We will provide culturally appropriate guidance and support throughout the whole process.

We can assist with accessing counselling, psychological care and any other services required.

We can support you in receiving a Direct Personal Response (DPR). A DPR is a process where the institution responsible for the child sexual abuse acknowledges that what happened was wrong and can provide a personal apology to the survivor.  A DPR is optional and we can talk you through this process.

Client privacy and confidentiality will be maintained at all times.