In a historical reckoning, individuals who were forcibly sent as children from Britain and Malta to Australia are now pursuing compensation for the grave injustices they suffered. These child migrants, many of whom were taken from their families under the guise of providing them with a better life, faced harrowing abuse in institutions that were meant to be their safe havens. This article delves into their stories, the apologies offered, and the ongoing battle for reparations.
Between 1920 and 1970, up to 30,000 children from Britain and Malta were relocated to Australia, often without the knowledge or consent of their parents. These children, some from unwed mothers or families unable to care for them, were promised a brighter future but instead encountered a reality far from it. The majority were placed in foster homes, orphanages, and other institutions where they suffered emotional, physical, and sexual abuse.
Former wards have recounted being subjected to slave labor, sexual assault, starvation, and severe beatings during their time in government-run institutions. The policy aimed to populate Australia with "good white stock," and many children were shipped off under false pretenses, believing they were orphans when their families were alive.
In a move to acknowledge the suffering of the "forgotten Australians," then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd issued a formal apology. This gesture aimed to facilitate the healing process for those who endured abuse in the very institutions tasked with their protection. The bipartisan support for the apology underscored its significance in the nation's journey towards reconciliation.
The sheer number of children moved caused many to lose their sense of identity, often being referred to by numbers rather than names. Devoid of affection and care, these children were exploited as unpaid labor and subjected to various forms of abuse, contradicting the promise of a better life.
Despite the gravity of their experiences, the Australian government has thus far dismissed the idea of direct compensation, pointing to state governments and churches that managed the abusive institutions as the responsible parties. The British High Commissioner Valerie Amos has indicated that the UK government has not yet tackled the issue of compensation. However, many argue that both the British and Australian governments bear liability and should offer reparations.
The child migrants' struggle for justice is a poignant reminder of past policies that inflicted deep scars on innocent lives. As they seek compensation, their stories compel both the British and Australian governments to confront the legacy of these misguided practices and consider the moral imperative of reparations. The apologies offered are a step towards healing, but for many survivors, true restitution remains to be seen.
