National Redress Scheme

The Bush Church Aid Society of Australia is part of the National Redress Scheme.

The National Redress Scheme provides acknowledgement and support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse.

It was created in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, which estimated that 60,000 people experienced institutional child sexual abuse in Australia.

Redress is an alternative to seeking compensation through the courts.

The National Redress Scheme can provide three things:

• access to counselling;

• a Redress payment; and

• a direct personal response from the institution (eg an apology) for people who want it.

The Scheme started on 1 July 2018 and runs for 10 years.

Applications can be made using an online or paper form. Free and confidential Redress Support Services are available for anyone applying for or considering applying for redress. These services are confidential and can help explain the Scheme and who can apply.

Once you have made an application, the National Redress Scheme will contact you to acknowledge receipt of the application and provide initial guidance on the process.

BCA’s National Director Greg Harris said the decision to join the National Redress Scheme reflected BCA’s core values. “The BCA prayer refers specifically to our history of supporting young people. One way we can continue to do so is by working with the National Redress Scheme to ensure that if anyone has experienced abuse, they are able to access the assistance they need and deserve.”

For more information on the National Redress Scheme, visit the website or call 1800 737 377.