Voluntary Placement - recognition campaigns
Many children were placed into Care by their parents, rather than by the State. Children placed into Care "voluntarily" have been described as "largely invisible" to State Authorities (Forgotten Australians Report, p.72) Although the experiences of these children were similar or identical to those who were State Wards, there has been less recognition of their needs and support. In particular, access to records is often more difficult. Current campaigns are aimed at redressing this imbalance. For example, Tracie Oldham has led a sustained advocacy campaign through her own published memoir - My Shitty Life, publicity through social media, and direct lobbying of politicians.
For instance, Minister for Child Protection and Family Services, Hon. Colin Brooks MP acknowledged Oldham's activism in the Victorian Parliament, during discussions about the development of Victorian Redress Program in August 2022. He was responding to a question from MP Tania Maxwell, Derryn Hinch's Justice Party, who had highlighted Oldham's work in advocating for the status of those who were placed "voluntarily" into Care.
Key people: Tracie Oldham
More information: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJRj8cYUwsE
Deputation to WA Premier
A group of Aboriginal men met with the WA Premier to advocate for repeal of the Aborigines Act 1905.
Key Organisations: The Native Union.
Key People: William Harris, Edward Harris, Norman Cleaver Harris, Algernon Kickett, Edward Jacobs, Wilfred Morrison, William Bodney.
Links: Western Mail, 15 March, 1928