Services to Assist Former State Wards of Victoria

Who is a former state ward of Victoria?

A person is a former state ward of Victoria if they were a child or young person:

• who lived in Victoria and was removed from their family's care, and
• at some stage the state government took legal responsibility for their care and upbringing.

Most former wards were brought up in institutions or homes operated by the state government or church-based organisations. Former wards may have had limited or no contact with their families and may have been moved several times while in care.

How can the Adoption and Family Records Service assist former wards of state of Victoria and their families?

The Adoption and Family Records Service (AFRS) assists former wards of state of Victoria and their families in a number of ways, including:

• Providing ward files and other personal records to former wards regarding their time in care
• Helping former wards and their families to locate and have contact with each other
• Offering counselling and support when records are released
• Providing information about other agencies and assistance to locate other records
• Giving referrals to support groups, self-help groups and other organisations who may be able to provide assistance.

You don't have to currently live in Victoria to access our services and there is no fee charged. AFRS is a confidential service.

Adoption and Family Records Service
Assistance to obtain records. Provides search, counselling and support services
Location: 20/570 Bourke St Melbourne
Phone: (03) 8608 5700 or 1300 769 926
Fax: (03) 8608 5760
Email: afrsduty@dhs.vic.gov.au