Free rail travel for local Forgotten Australians attending apology

Page MP, Janelle Saffin, said she is pleased that there is now free rail travel for local Forgotten Australians to get to Canberra for the apology next Monday.

“I understand how important it is for people to be there, to hear this apology and be part of the event,” she said.

“I asked the Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, to confirm that there would be free rail travel available and I also took up the matter with the NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Penny Sharpe, and I’m pleased to hear that this free travel is now being provided for Forgotten Australians in New South Wales.

“I appreciate the Prime Minister and Australian Government making the decision to say sorry on behalf of the nation because that’s what the Forgotten Australians asked for.

“I have read the Senate reports and I think the States have an obligation to these people, and I hope they do compensate them.

“I’m aware some Forgotten Australians have ongoing health and social issues as a result of their institutionalisation and disconnection from family, and they deserve support.

“I hope in a small but significant way the apology can help them feel acknowledged that they suffered a wrong and recognition that they are no longer forgotten Australians.”

Those wanting the free rail travel need to register for the event by ringing 1800 050 011.

Related posts:

1. ‘Forgotten Australians’: Australian Institutional Care Survivors Research Network established
2. The Year of the Apology Indigenous Art Exhibition
3. It’s time for a national standard gauge rail system
4. ‘Courageous Australians’ nominations sought for phone book covers
5. Assistance recommended for 2000 forgotten F-111 ‘pick and patch’ workers

Related Articles:

Related posts:

1. ‘Forgotten Australians’: Australian Institutional Care Survivors Research Network established
2. The Year of the Apology Indigenous Art Exhibition
3. It’s time for a national standard gauge rail system
4. ‘Courageous Australians’ nominations sought for phone book covers
5. Assistance recommended for 2000 forgotten F-111 ‘pick and patch’ workers