AASW Historical Forced Adoption Practices Apology | AASW

18 June 2025

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) unreservedly apologises for the historical forced adoption practices that separated mothers from their babies, and children from their families.

We acknowledge the profound trauma endured by women whose babies were forcibly taken and adopted out, recognising the deep and lasting emotional scars of these unjust practices. We sincerely apologise for the harm caused, honouring their strength and resilience while committing to truth, healing, and remembrance.

Through listening to the stories of people with lived experience we understand and recognise, the profound and continuing harm of these actions, including the deep loss, trauma, disempowerment, and grief experienced by mothers, children, fathers, grandparents, adoptive parents and siblings, families and their descendants.

The AASW recognises that these practices represented serious breaches of human rights and resulted in the loss of family connections, identity and history. We also acknowledge the vital responsibility of the social work profession to uphold and protect human rights in all areas of practice. This means maintaining ethical awareness, fostering critical reflection and challenging practices and systems that risk causing harm.

We are committed to learning from the past and supporting those affected by historical adoption practices. The AASW will continue to provide awareness for members, information, advocacy and referrals to services that facilitate healing.

Julianne Whyte OAM
AASW National President