The Salvation Army Apologises to People Affected by Forced Adoptions

The Salvation Army Australia would like to offer its most sincere apology to the many mothers, fathers, and babies who are now adults, for the role we played in the policy of forced adoptions in the past and the continuing impact this policy may have had on the lives of those affected.

We are aware forced adoption practices did occur previously, in homes and hospitals operated by The Salvation Army, to mothers and babies in our care during this period and we are sensitive to the huge impact on many lives that societal and organisational policies and practices in adoption have had.

The Salvation Army will continue to work with mothers, fathers, children, and the federal and state governments as we seek to resolve the long term consequences of Australia’s former adoption policies.

The Salvation Army has been working with adoption support groups and individuals to address issues relating to these policies and practices with the aim of bringing closure and healing for what has been a traumatic life experience.

The Salvation Army encourages any individuals who wish to discuss their experience to contact us: