What is the Forced Adoption Support Service (FASS)?
This service is for anyone who has been affected by forced adoption. The impacts of forced adoption are wide ranging and can extend beyond mothers, fathers, adopted persons and family members. If you have been affected in any way by forced adoption, we are here to help you.
This service is available to anyone, regardless of cultural background, disabilities, gender,age or sexual preference. People can access support in Western Australia regardless of which state the adoption took place in.
Forced Adoptions
On 21 March, 2013 the Australian Government formally apologised to people affected by forced adoption or removal policies and practices. Today many of these adoptions are considered to have been ‘forced’ and for many people there are significant ongoing mental and physical effects. For more information on the National Apology to people affected by forced adoption practices please visit the Department of Social Services website.
How can we help?
Our staff are experienced in trauma informed support. We provide a referral and information service that includes
- Support to meet individual needs
- Assistance with record searching
- Referrals for long term support
We will listen and assist you with your situation in a safe environment.
How much does it cost?
This is a free national service. The service is funded by the Australian Government, Department of Social Services.
How to access this service?
If you want to discuss how we can support you, or wish to refer someone to our service please freecall 1800 21 03 13 or contact us via the email form below.
If you are unable to visit us, or live in a regional or rural area, we can provide support over the phone or online.
Parliamentary inquiry into forced adoptions
Relationships Australia WA’s Forced Adoption Support Service welcomed the announcement that WA will be holding a parliamentary inquiry into forced adoptions.
The inquiry will give people affected by forced adoptions an opportunity, either publicly or privately, to make submissions regarding their lived experiences.
The closing date for submissions (written, audio or video) has been extended to 16 June, 2023.
You can find out more on how to make a submission here: https://www.parliament.wa.gov.au/WebCMS/webcms.nsf/resources/file-adoptinqsubmission/$file/Information%20on%20making%20submission.pdf