Adoption Is Not An Option
For Aboriginal children, being connected to their culture and community is not just beneficial—it is essential.
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AbSec is firmly opposed to the adoption of Aboriginal children, and this position will never change. In our view, adoption risks permanently removing an Aboriginal child from their family and culture, further rupturing our communities with little chance for reunification. We believe that every Aboriginal child deserves the right to grow up within their culture and community, surrounded by people who understand and respect their heritage.
The importance of cultural connection
For Aboriginal children, being connected to their culture and community is not just beneficial—it is essential. Culture forms a fundamental part of a child’s identity and provides a sense of belonging and understanding of who they are. When a child is adopted out of their cultural context, they lose these vital connections, which can lead to a lifelong struggle with identity and belonging.
As outlined in our 2015 position paper, “Guardianship Orders for Aboriginal Children and Young People” AbSec calls for robust safeguards to ensure that Aboriginal children remain connected to their culture and community. These safeguards focus on the rights of each Aboriginal child to safety, dignity, identity, and culture. Our position paper highlights the importance of maintaining these connections and provides a framework for how this can be achieved.
The Aboriginal Guardianship Support Model
In response to these concerns, AbSec has developed an Aboriginal Guardianship Support Model (AGSM) through Commissioning, based on the safeguards put forward in our position paper. This model aims to provide a culturally appropriate alternative to adoption, ensuring that Aboriginal children remain within their communities and maintain their cultural connections. The model is currently being rolled out in the Hunter and South West Sydney areas, providing much-needed support to Aboriginal families and children.
