National Apology Day, Friday 13 February 2026

On 13 February 2008, then-Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, delivered this historic Apology in Parliament, acknowledging the deep pain and injustice inflicted on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples:

“For the pain, suffering and hurt of these Stolen Generations, their descendants, and the families left behind, we say sorry. To the mothers and fathers, the brothers, and sisters, for the breaking up of families and communities, we say sorry. And for the indignity and degradation inflicted on a proud people and culture, we say sorry.”

Today is a time to pause, remember, and reflect. We honour the Stolen Generations — the children taken from their families, the parents and carers who never stopped searching, and the communities who continue to carry the impacts of these injustices. Today is a reminder of the past, but also a commitment to ensuring future generations never experience such pain again.

While the National Apology is a crucial step, we acknowledge that the work is far from over. If you are looking for ways to support reconciliation, here are some ideas you can do today, and any day:

• Read about the Stolen Generations

• Read the annual Closing the Gap report

• Listen to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities

• Learn whose Country you live and work on, and acknowledge it respectfully

• Commit to ongoing learning — reconciliation is not a one-time action, but a lifelong responsibility

If you or someone you love needs support, our Social Health team is here to walk with you on your healing journey. Call us on (07) 3810 3000 – option 4.

Our People Our Community Our Health Our Way