The government has taken steps to address historical redress inequities for survivors of abuse at the Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit.
After more than two decades, survivors will receive compensation addressing disparities in settlements and legal fees deducted from previous redress payments.
In 2001, a $6.5 million group settlement was reached for 95 survivors who suffered abuse at the Lake Alice Unit. Represented by the law firm Grant Cameron & Associates (now GCA Lawyers), survivors saw approximately $2.6 million deducted for legal fees before individual payments were issued. As a result, survivors received an average of $41,000, reduced significantly by the fees.
Erica Stanford, the Lead Coordination Minister, said it was important to correct this “historic injustice” which had persisted for over 20 years.
“As a society, we should have done better. This Government is determined to do better,” Stanford stated. She noted the government’s response aligns with recommendation 18 from the Royal Commission’s final report, which called for a review of settlements.
Eligible survivors can submit claims to the Ministry of Health until June 30, 2025, for reimbursement, with funds provided on an ex-gratia basis, meaning they won’t impact tax or benefit entitlements. The $2.6 million allocation will address these parity issues, cover administration costs, and meet additional claims related to historic abuse.
The government’s commitment includes providing urgent financial assistance to terminally ill survivors and addressing cases identified as torture by the Royal Commission.
“While we can never fully make redress or right the harm survivors experienced, the Government is responding with the respect and care these survivors deserve,” said Stanford.
Image credit: Michael Lensink
