National Apology Day marks the anniversary of the 2008 apology delivered to the Stolen Generations. An acknowledgment of the profound harm caused by government policies that forcibly removed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, cultures and Country.

Each year, Apology Day is a moment to pause and reflect on the strength and resilience of Stolen Generations survivors and their families. It is a reminder that while the apology was a vital step, words alone are not enough. The impacts of these policies are ongoing, felt across generations through loss of culture, language, connection and trust.

In 2026, Apology Day calls on all Australians to move beyond remembrance and commit to action. This means listening to Aboriginal voices, supporting truth-telling, and working towards genuine reconciliation grounded in justice, respect and self-determination.

As part of this ongoing commitment to truth-telling, keep an eye out for Reconciliation SA’s upcoming documentary, which will further explore lived experiences, memory, and the continuing impacts of past policies. Reconciliation SA also acknowledges the Department for Child Protection, whose support ensured the documentary can be made.

Honouring the apology means ensuring it lives not only in history, but in the choices we make today and the future we are building together.