AMA Victoria joins State Parliament in offering an apology for the role the medical profession played in forced adoptions in Victoria

19 March 2025

On behalf of the medical profession, AMA Victoria joins the Victorian Parliament in offering a deep and heartfelt apology for the role the medical profession played in forced adoptions.

We acknowledge the profound and enduring pain and trauma experienced by mothers, children and families whose lives were irrevocably disrupted. We also recognise the part the medical profession played in these practices.

Forced adoptions coerced, pressured and misled women into relinquishing their children, denying them their rights, dignity, and the ability to make free and informed choices.

To the mothers who endured unimaginable grief, to the children separated from their families, and to all those whose relationships and identities were fractured — we are deeply sorry.

We recognise that these practices were driven by discriminatory attitudes toward unmarried mothers, vulnerable women and marginalised groups. Many who placed their trust in the medical profession were betrayed by the very institutions and individuals meant to care for them.

As members of the community, doctors are not immune to the prevailing attitudes and biases of their time. Yet, as a profession entrusted with the care and wellbeing of others, we have a heightened responsibility to interrogate our cultural, social and unconscious biases. The privileged position we hold - both in society and in the lives of those to whom we owe a duty of care - demands a commitment to continuous reflection and ethical vigilance.

We must learn from this dark chapter. While the medical profession has made considerable progress in championing patient autonomy, informed consent and ethical care, we remain committed to continually strengthening these principles.

To every mother, child and family impacted by forced adoptions — we stand with you, we grieve with you and we honour your experiences by striving to do better.

Further information

• Inquiry into responses to historical forced adoptions in Victoria | Parliament of Victoria