Did you grow up in a Victorian orphanage or home prior to 1990? Open Place is here to support you and your family members
Click on the tiles below to find out more.
Richmond drop-in centre
A safe and welcoming place for Forgotten Australians to meet up, access facilities and support, share a meal and participate in group activities.
Records searches and family reunions
Our Records, Find & Connect team can support you to access records from your time ‘in care’ and to search for family members.
Health support
Open Place receives annual funding from the Victorian Government to support Forgotten Australians in meeting costs related to your health needs.
National Redress Scheme support
Free support for Forgotten Australians who are applying for, or thinking of applying for, redress through the National Redress Scheme.
Counselling
Talk privately with a trained professional who can listen, offer support, advice, and share new ways of thinking about any challenges that you’re facing.
Coordinated support
We provide information, referral, casework and advocacy to help Forgotten Australians to improve your health and wellbeing.
Social support groups
Join our monthly meet-ups to talk about shared interests and take part in group activities and events designed to support your health and wellbeing.
Community education
We are committed to raising community awareness about the challenges faced by Forgotten Australians, with the aim of improving your access to services.
The Open Place suite of services is funded by the Victorian Government Department of Families, Fairness and Housing and the Australian Government Department of Social Services.