Removal of Aboriginal Infants in a Hospital Setting: Examining Practices

Flinders University 2021

Researchers: Dr Michelle Jones, Jackie Ah Kit, Dr Carmela Bastian

This research aims to examine the decision-making processes and the role of the hospital social worker and other staff in the removal of Aboriginal infants 2018-2020 at Women’s and Children’s Health Network. The overrepresentation of the removal of Aboriginal infants is reported to be contributing to another “Stolen Generation” further threatening the social, emotional and
spiritual wellbeing of Aboriginal people (O’Donnell et al 2019). The expected outcomes and benefits of this project are to the social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of Aboriginal families experiencing removal of infant at birth and building the cultural responsiveness of social work staff.

Acknowledgement of Country

Breakthrough acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of this nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work. We recognise all Australian communities who, through their lived experience, help to guide the research funded by Breakthrough.

Acknowledgement of Lived Experience

Breakthrough acknowledges those with lived experiences of mental illness. Every person’s story is uniquely theirs with their own challenges and triumphs, hopes and dreams; but together, we all share the same desire to live a life of connection, belonging and freedom. We are grateful to those who are willing to share their stories, and for the opportunities to listen.