Insight 3

The recent approval of a historic settlement worth over $50 million by the NSW Supreme Court is expected to benefit thousands of family members and descendants of the Northern Territory stolen generations. The settlement, which was initially reached in September of the previous year, has now received official court approval.

According to estimates provided by the firm involved, between 4,000 and 6,000 Northern Territory members of the stolen generations are eligible to register for the claim. The class action encompasses survivors of the Northern Territory stolen generations who were removed prior to 30 June 1978, as well as certain family members and deceased estates of both these groups.

In response to the launch of the class action, the Commonwealth introduced the Territories Stolen Generations Redress Scheme, which offers compensation and support specifically to survivors of the stolen generations. However, it is important to note that the redress scheme does not cover deceased estates of stolen generations members, living carers or siblings of removed children (kinship group members), or deceased estates of kinship group members.

With the approval of the settlement, living members of the stolen generations will still maintain access to the redress scheme. In addition, separate compensation will now be made available to the additional groups who were previously not covered.

It is recognized that the stolen generation represents one of the darkest chapters in the history of the country, and no amount of money can fully make up for the experiences and suffering endured. However, it is hoped that this historic settlement will contribute in some way to the healing process for those affected.

In MHN, we provide financial resources to plaintiffs who may not have the means to pursue their legal rights without assistance. We seek to support those who have strong legal claims but lack the financial resources to pursue them fully, enabling them to obtain the justice they deserve.

Our litigation finance solutions are targeted at individuals and businesses involved in a wide range of legal disputes, including but not limited to:

• Commercial litigation
• Personal injury claims
• Class actions
• Family cases
• Criminal cases

We work with plaintiffs and their legal teams to evaluate the merits of each case and to determine the appropriate level of funding required to support the litigation.