Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse

Types of abuse and neglect

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This page explains what abuse and neglect is covered in Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse.

You may find this content distressing. For immediate support or in an emergency call Triple Zero (000). If you need to talk to a professional with experience in trauma, please contact one of the following 24-hour services. 

24-hour support

  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 

  • Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578 or 1800 211 028 

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 

  • MensLine: 1300 789 978 

  • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 

  • 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 

  • 13YARN 13 92 76 

 In the Child Wellbeing and Safety Act 2005, child means a child or young person who is under the age of 18 years. 

This page explains what abuse and neglect is covered in Redress for Historical Institutional Abuse. 

What types of abuse and neglect is covered

Physical abuse

Physical abuse is when someone injures you on purpose. This could include hitting, shaking, punching, burning or holding you down so you cannot move. 

Psychological or emotional abuse 

This can happen when an adult hurts you with their words or actions that it has a lasting impact on you. This could be ignoring, threatening, putting you down or making you feel bad about yourself, or isolating you from family. 

Neglect

Neglect is when someone who should be taking care doesn’t give you the things you need to be happy and healthy. This could be access to food, clothing, education, medical care or love. 

What types of abuse are not covered 

Redress does not cover sexual abuse. For help with this contact the National Redress Scheme on 1800 737 377 or go to the National Redress Scheme website. 

Support

You can contact the Redress support team at the department:

These free and confidential support services can help you apply. 

  • Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) – 1800 008 774

  • Child Migrants Trust - 1800 04 05 09

  • Connecting Home – 8679 0777

  • Drummond Street Services – 9663 6733

  • IGFF (In Good Faith Foundation) – 1300 124 433

  • Open Place (Relationships Australia Victoria) – 1800 779 379

  • Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency (VACCA) – 9287 8800