Link-Up NSW marks 45 year milestone but so much more to still be done

“There is nothing more powerful when a survivor locks eyes with long lost family for first time.”  

The words of Link-Up NSW CEO Lynne Kinghan at the 45th anniversary dinner at the Western Sydney Convention Centre were a compelling reminder of why every single person who works in the Stolen Generations sector does what they do, each and every day, to reunite Stolen Generations survivors with their families.  

Australia’s first Link-Up organisation, Link-Up NSW has connected over 1500 Stolen Generations survivors with their families, where connections were lost due to government policies of forced removal of children from their families and their communities. 

As 500 people gathered to stand side by side with the organisation and acknowledge their significant achievements, they also learnt how the work leading to reunions is detailed, challenging, but incredibly rewarding. 

Witnessing reunions is an honour

It begins with researchers who leave no stone unturned, and then case workers step in and every part of reunion is thoughtfully organised.

“When the much anticipated day arrives, our councillors are there. This work changes lives and to witness it or be part of it is an honour,” Ms Kinghan said.

“Every child deserves to grow up knowing who they are and where they come from,” she added.

Board Chairperson Aunty Lizzie May said families torn apart are still affected today by past government policies. 

\Yet amongst the celebrations, there was a stark reminder of the actions not delivered by government in the 28 years since the 1997 Bringing them home report made 83 recommendations.  

Call for systematic government response to address survivors rights and needs

The Healing Foundation CEO Shannan Dodson explained that only five of the 83 recommendations had been implemented since 1997 and survivors were saying – Are they waiting for us to die? 

Those recommendations ranged from the need for reparations and apologies, plus access to records, family reunions, education and training of people who work with us and for healing-focused, trauma informed services.  

"It’s not good enough that survivors are ageing and passing away without seeing the justice they deserve,” she said. 

“We need a systematic government response to address the needs and rights of Stolen Generations survivors and their descendants. 

“The failure to deliver what so many survivors and others who have fought hard for decades and continue to fight for has only added to the trauma,” she said.

Urgent action needed in priority areas

Priority areas for urgent action are:

Access to culturally safe, trauma informed aged care and health services

• Equitable redress
• Prioritised access to records, and
• Investment in Stolen Generations organisations and programs that support survivors.

Encouragement for organisations to take action

The Healing Foundation encourages organisations connected to Link-Up NSW, all organisations which work with our mob to revisit the Bringing Them Home recommendations and to audit your responses to them. 

Congratulations to Link-Up NSW  on achieving its 45 year milestone.