03 August 2011
The Catholic Church in Australia has issued a national apology over past adoption practices that have been described as a "national disgrace". The apology was prompted by national media investigation into claims of abuse and trauma in Newcastle.
It is believed at least 150,000 Australian women had their babies taken against their will by some churches and adoption agencies between the 1950s and 1970s.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-07-25/catholic-church-apologises-over-forced-adoptions/2808672