Analysis from The Healing Foundation indicates encouraging engagement from governments, organisations and institutions with actions to support Stolen Generations survivors, nearly 30 years after the Bringing them home report was released in 1997.
The Healing Foundation’s first quarterly Progress Report on progress against From Sorry to Action: A plan to act on Bringing them home (2026-2028) finds that accountable parties have made commitments towards almost 42% of actions identified in the plan.
From Sorry to Action is a time critical road map that asks for firm commitments to deliver meaningful change for Stolen Generations survivors within two years. The plan was released on National Sorry Day this year.
The plan outlines opportunities for responsible agencies, organisations and leaders to support implementation. Recipients were invited to provide updates on progress and identify opportunities to advance the recommendations collectively.
This progress report reflects commitments made against the action plan between 26 May and 30 September 2026.
The Healing Foundation Acting CEO Leonie Williamson said the progress report shows encouraging signs that governments, organisations and institutions are engaging with the plan and responding to the urgent needs of Stolen Generations survivors.
“While this is a positive start, there is still much work to do to ensure survivors experience real change in their daily lives,” she said.
“Survivors deserve justice, and to be able to age with dignity and respect.
“Accountability is key to ensuring survivors’ urgent needs are front of mind for government leaders, policy makers and all parties who have the power to enact meaningful change and move from sorry to action.”
The release of the action plan came after an analysis found that only five of the original 83 recommendations made in Bringing them home had been clearly implemented. That’s just 6%.
Five priority areas were identified in consultation with survivors, Stolen Generations Organisations, and in conversation with governments:
- health, social and emotional wellbeing, and ageing
- records, redress, and acknowledgments
- education, research and data
- sector support and workforce development
- governance and accountability
The action plan focuses on achievable priorities that can be progressed within two years.
Source: The Healing Foundation.