Redress Support Services

We recognise the lifelong impacts of childhood trauma.

We would like to acknowledge the lived experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples of the Stolen Generations and those who had child sexual abuse perpetrated against them in an institution. We welcome all Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples seeking the support of this service.

We provide free and confidential support for anyone making, or considering making, an application through the National Redress Scheme.

What is the National Redress Scheme and what does it mean?

The National Redress Scheme (NRS) is the Australian Government’s response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The NRS offers acknowledgement and support to people who:

• had child sexual abuse perpetrated against them in an institution before July 1 2018, and
• were born before 30 June 2010, and
• are Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Redress is an alternative to seeking compensation through the courts. The NRS offers three components of Redress:

• access to counselling 
• a Redress scheme payment
• a Direct Personal Response (an apology) from the institution/s responsible for the abuse.

The NRS commenced on 1 July 2018. Applications for the NRS will be accepted until 30 June 2027.

If you would like more information about the NRS please visit www.nationalredress.gov.au or call them on 1800 737 377.

How we can help?

Deciding whether to apply for the NRS can be difficult. Redress Support Services can assist you with this decision and refer you as needed to other relevant services.

We can offer trauma-informed support to assist with your decision making and to ensure that you understand all of the options that are available to you. 

We can provide practical and emotional support including:

• providing information about the NRS and answering your questions
• assistance to complete a NRS application, including support and advocacy throughout the process
• supportive counselling to help you to manage the emotional impact of the application process
• referrals to other services, including legal and financial counselling services, and personal or family therapy
• assistance to understand the outcome of your NRS application
• assistance and support to access a Direct Personal Response.

Support services aim to be accessible, inclusive and responsive to the varied needs of people who have had child sexual abuse perpetrated against them.

How can I access services?

Professional services are delivered across Victoria through face-to-face settings (where COVIDSafe and in line with Government restrictions), telephone and/or online support to ensure accessibility for people across Victoria who are engaging with the NRS. 

How do I get started?

To access information, support or to make an appointment with our Redress Support Services:

• Call us on 1800 052 674 
• Email [email protected]

Redress Support Services are funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

Crisis support

We are not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000 (triple zero).

For urgent support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, SuicideLine Victoria on 1300 651 251, Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78 or Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800.