Content Warning

Thank you for navigating your way to our website.

Here you will find information that may support your journey and life after institutional abuse. We do understand the impacts of trauma and the unique nature of surviving and recovering from institutional abuse.

This section of our website may contain material, information, or references that is sometimes confronting and disturbing. We recognise that sometimes particular images, words, or references can cause distress, sadness or trigger traumatic memories, particularly survivors of past institutional abuse, violence, or childhood trauma.

We understand that systems you have navigated for years may have been hard. It is important to us at drummond street that we are trauma informed and put you and your support network at the centre of what we do.

For some people, these responses can be overwhelming. If you need to talk to someone, we are happy to provide support or get you the support you need.

Contact us on 03 9663 6733 (Monday–Friday 9am–5pm).

In publishing historical material in its original form or sources, some language or descriptions may use terms which people – including survivors’ further distress and would now be recognised as offensive or upsetting. We apologise for any offence or distress reading such language might cause.

On this website, we have striven to use inclusive, restorative, and non-derogatory language. We also want to acknowledge the strength and bravery of survivors and their families and loved ones and do this recognising the different experiences of survivors.

We value and welcome feedback in relation to content on this site to improve our transparency, accountability and provide information that helps survivors healing. Please contact us at cwsjustice@ds.org.au or on +61 3 8548 4970.

First Nations peoples

We also wis­h to acknowledge the strength and resilience of all First Nations people in the face of ongoing colonization.  This includes members of the Stolen Generations and to many first nations peoples who have and continue to experience harm from institutions.

Material in this section has been reviewed, which to the best of our knowledge does not include any images or names of First Nations peoples, now deceased.

We are committed to transparency but also respectful of cultural practices.  Please let us know if any material – images or references may need to be removed or cause offence.