The Salvation Army has formally apologised to people who were mistreated while in the organisation's care as children.
The Christian organisation cared for more than 30,000 Australian children at 55 homes between 1894 and the early 1990s.
Hundreds of those who were in care attended the apology at Old Parliament House in Canberra.
Speaking on behalf of the world leader of the organisation, who was unable to attend due to health issues, Commissioner Barry Swanson said the Salvation Army offered a heartfelt apology to the children who were abused.
He said the abuse that took place in the homes should never have happened.
"I express to all Australian care leavers our deepest sorrow for these failures and hurts," he said.
"The Salvation Army offers you a heartfelt apology.
"For any harsh words, violent actions or abuse - we are sorry. These should never have happened,” Barry Swanson said.
"When you tried to speak out and you were not listened to or believed, we are sorry."
The organisation acknowledged that “at certain times in our history, the atmosphere in some homes was rigid, harsh, and authoritarian.”
“Many children did not experience the gentleness of love that they needed. Some children suffered abuse and deprivation.”
The Salvation Army said "greater love was not given when you were so vulnerable" and apologised for the "any harsh words, violent actions or abuse."
They also acknowledged that support was not given to "those who did not find the support you needed as you grieved for your losses"
There was also an apology to indigenous Australians "for the loss of culture and connection to your land."
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