International child-centred community development organisation, Plan, applauds the Federal Parliament's action today in saying 'sorry' to the indigenous peoples of Australia for the systematic separation of generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their parents, families and communities.

"Through its many decades of work in the developing world, Plan knows the terrible damage that can be done to children when they are removed from their parents," says Ian Wishart, CEO of Plan in Australia.

"We understand that the denial of a child's language, culture and heritage can destroy a child’s identity. We understand a child’s right to be protected and connected to their family and community. In that respect Plan is an organisation that can understand the need to say sorry to Indigenous people."

Plan in Australia is part of Plan International, one of the world’s largest community development organisations committed to promoting the rights and interests of the world's children. Working in 49 developing countries in Asia, Africa and Central & South America, Plan’s vision is of a world in which all children realise their full potential in societies which respect people’s rights and dignity.

"Plan management, staff and volunteers will join Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians today in marking this important occasion in our nation’s history," said Mr Wishart.