On 13 February 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologised on behalf of the nation for past laws, policies and practices that have impacted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly members of the Stolen Generations and their descendants.
Each year, we come together to mark the anniversary of this significant event. It is an important time to acknowledge how generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been affected, and continue to be affected, by the past Government policies and practices.
First Nations Communities will be observing Apology Day; details are given for NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Brisbane.
The Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations is observed on February 13 each year in Australia. It marks the historic apology delivered by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on February 13, 2008, to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly the Stolen Generations—Indigenous children who were forcibly removed from their families as part of government policies.
Significance of the Apology
– The apology acknowledged the deep pain and suffering caused by these past government policies.
– It was a critical step toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
– While it did not include compensation, it set the stage for ongoing efforts toward justice, healing, and closing the gap in inequalities.
How is the Anniversary Commemorated?
– Community gatherings and ceremonies led by Indigenous organizations.
– School and workplace discussions about reconciliation and Indigenous history.
– Reflection on progress in addressing Indigenous rights, health, and education and Closing the Gap
– Calls for further action on truth-telling, treaty, and justice for First Nations people.
New South Wales
Link-Up (NSW) 2025 National Apology Event
Join us on Thursday, 13th of February 2025 as we come together to watch Kevin Rudd’s National Apology on the big screen to mourn the impacts of the past government policies while acknowledging the resilience and strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
This is a free event for the community; everyone is welcome to attend!!
NATIONAL APOLOGY EVENT
MOUNT DRUITT HALL
87 MOUNT DRUITT RD,
MOUNT DRUITT NSW 2770
10AM-2PM
« Welcome to Country
« Smoking Ceremony
« Free BBQ
« Corroboree
« Apology Video Replay
Victoria
VACCA and Link-Up Victoria, in partnership with the City of Darebin and Connecting Home, are hosting an event to commemorate the 17th Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations. The event will be held at the Darebin Town Hall, 286 Gower Street and at the Stolen Generations Marker from 10am on Thursday, 13 February.
The event will include a smoking ceremony, Stolen Generations speakers, and guest speakers from VACCA, Connecting Home and City of Darebin. Allies are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Lunch will follow the event from 12pm at the Shire Hall next door. If you would like to attend lunch, please RSVP by emailing administration@connectinghome.org.au
South Australia
When: Thursday, 13 February 2025, 10:15am (10:45am start)
Where: Birkenhead Bridge (Northern side)
Each year, to commemorate the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generation, we walk together to acknowledge the legacy of broken cultural, spiritual and family ties, whilst united we share in the healing.
Join us on the northern side of Birkenhead Bridge as we walk across to the southern side (towards Hart’s Mill) where a Smoking Ceremony and Kaurna Welcome to Country will take place, followed by a networking BBQ.
Download the Flyer for this event
Brisbane
Anniversary of the National Apology (2025)
When: 10am, Thursday 13 February 2025
Where: Concert Hall Foyer, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
Register to Attend: here
Brisbane: Unable to Attend, go here for a Livestream:
