鈥淎s part of this survivor-led process, we want to ensure that there is appropriate and meaningful recognition for those who have been harmed as well as compensation, as part of a broader process of healing.鈥
Existing compensation mechanisms had revictimised survivors of abuse in care, making it all the more important that the foundations and processes of the new system are tika or right, Dr Ahuriri-Driscoll says.
鈥淭aking a lead from the interim Royal Commission Report, we鈥檒l be checking in with survivors and wider networks as we develop and proceed with our programme of work.
鈥淩eceiving this appointment is an honour and a privilege. As an adoptee survivor who has researched in this area, utilising that to support change is of tremendous personal significance. We don鈥檛 often get these opportunities, as survivors we鈥檝e been marginalised.鈥
As an academic, these opportunities to be able to contribute in a more tangible and direct way are rare, but really important, she says.
Dr Ahuriri-Driscoll recognised the considerable mahi from other survivors to make their voices heard.
鈥淭here鈥檚 a lot of people who have been fighting and lobbying for this.听 My approach in terms of advocacy has been via research but there are other skillsets and expertise, insights and lived experience that are needed.
鈥淭his appointment recognises both my experience and [co-Chair] Ruth鈥檚 in working across diverse communities and networks, often at a strategic level. I鈥檓 learning a lot already about how we can move from activism into implementation.鈥
Dr Ahuriri-Driscoll鈥檚 leadership in health and academic sectors includes board experience on the Cancer Society, Health Research Council, Ethics Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology, and the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions Australasia.
鈥淚 see this appointment as the interface of the professional and personal, advocacy, activism and research - the culmination of all of these things, which for me is exciting. It鈥檚 a contribution that is important, and a form of healing in itself.鈥
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