26/05/2026
Each year, 26 May marks National Sorry Day, acknowledging the Stolen Generations — Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children forcibly removed from their families between the mid-1800s and 1970s — and the tabling of the Bringing them home report in 1997.
The report made 83 recommendations to address the harm inflicted on Stolen Generations survivors, their families and communities but, a generation on, many of these crucial actions have not been taken, with only five (6%) of the report’s recommendations having been fully implemented.*
This year, National Sorry Day marks the 29th anniversary of the report and this year’s theme; From Sorry to Action, recognises the leadership, accountability and urgency required to deliver real change within survivors’ lifetimes.
“The devastating impacts of racist policies that tore apart our families and removed babies and children from our culture are still deeply felt today. Today’s leaders can turn that around by making real change that supports healing – not only for survivors and their families, but for the nation as a whole.” – Shannan Dodson, CEO, The Healing Foundation (Yawuru)
The Healing Foundation is leading the national call to deliver tangible action for Stolen Generations survivors and their families. To learn more, access resources and support the important work of the Healing Foundation, head to: www.healingfoundation.org.au
*Source: 'Are you waiting for us to die?': The unfinished business of Bringing them home,
The Healing Foundation 2025.