Ministerial Statement

PAST ADOPTION PRACTICES

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI (Hartley—Minister for Education and Child Development) (14:05): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. G. PORTOLESI: Members will be aware that on 28 March 2012, the Premier announced the government's intention to make a formal apology on behalf of the South Australian government and our community to the many families and individuals who were affected by past practices that involved forced adoption. As the Premier indicated at the time, families need recognition of the fact that, in cases where mothers felt pressured to adopt their children, they have spent decades dealing with the impact, as have their children. The Premier asked me to engage with the community, particularly those members of our community who may have been affected by these past adoption practices to ensure their views were heard in shaping an apology. I wish to advise the house that there has already been significant discussion and engagement with individuals and families.

It is clearly important to those who have already engaged in this sensitive discussion, that the apology is sincere for mothers, fathers, children and extended families, while also assisting in the healing required for the community to move forward. What is also clear from the contribution so far is that this is a highly emotive and sensitive issue for both parents and for the people who were adopted as children. To ensure we respect the wishes of the people affected by these past practices, I have consulted with the Premier and advise the house that the period of consultation for the apology will be extended. This is in response to contact my officers have received requesting that the consultation period for the apology be extended, and will also ensure that the Premier is available to deliver the apology.

I therefore wish to advise the house that the Premier will now make a formal apology in the parliament on Wednesday 18 July 2012. Meanwhile I will continue to discuss these important and deeply emotive matters with mothers, fathers, those people adopted as children and their families to ensure that this apology accurately reflects their wishes and assists in their healing.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!