Our Records, Find & Connect team can support you to search for family members who you were separated from as a result of being placed in care, such as siblings, parents or grandparents.

We work closely with VANISH to organise many of these searches. VANISH is a support, information and referral service for people affected by adoption or donor conception. They also conduct family searches for Forgotten Australians on behalf of Open Place.

As part of this process, you may also need to apply for your own records of time ‘in care’.

This journey can bring up mixed emotions as you find out about your family history.

You may find it helpful to access some counselling support through Open Place or with a counsellor of your choice while you undertake your records and family search.

The search can take a significant amount of time to complete. However, we will keep you updated as information about your family is found.

Please be aware that, when searching for living family members, we can only search information sources that are available to the public, due to privacy laws.

More about our services

Richmond Drop-In

Meet up with other Forgotten Australians, use computers and facilities, get support, share a meal and take part in group activities. Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

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.

Events and activities

Upcoming Drop-In activities and other events for Forgotten Australians organised by Open Place.