Australia's Second Stolen Generation - Myth or Reality?

In 2007 Kevin Rudd, the then Prime Minister of Australia issued a public apology to what has become known as the Stolen Generation: "We apologise for the laws and policies of successive parliaments and governments that have... [ view full abstract ]

In 2007 Kevin Rudd, the then Prime Minister of Australia issued a public apology to what has become known as the Stolen Generation:
"We apologise for the laws and policies of successive parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians," the apology read.

"We apologise especially for the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, their communities and their country.

"For the pain, suffering and hurt of these Stolen Generations, their descendants and for their families left behind, we say sorry.

"To the mothers and the fathers, the brothers and the sisters, for the breaking up of families and communities, we say sorry.

"And for the indignity and degradation thus inflicted on a proud people and a proud culture, we say sorry."

The Apology, as it is now known, marked the culmination of a long campaign by Aboriginal people for the Australian State and Federal Governments to recognise the enduring, harmful effects of past Aboriginal child removal policies. The apology brought renewed hope that the rate of Aboriginal child removal could be reduced and children supported to remain connected to their family, community and culture.

Some commentators however have claimed that a new, second Stolen Generation of Aboriginal children is now emerging in Australia. This paper will examine the veracity for such a claim with a particular focus on the State of Victoria. Key data considered will include changes in the rate of Aboriginal children’s admission to out of home care, Aboriginal children in out of home care and compliance with the legislated Aboriginal child placement principle. The paper will further consider the policy responses now under consideration in the light of this evidence.