As part of Multicap’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation, the Melbourne team recently had the privilege of hosting Aunty Jane Rosengrave, proud Yorta Yorta woman, lifelong disability advocate, and member of the Stolen Generation, who generously shared her powerful story of strength, survival, and freedom.
Aunty Jane is a born storyteller. She spoke with honesty and humour about the deep trauma she experienced growing up institutionalised from the age of six navigating life with an intellectual disability while being separated from her family and culture, and enduring years of mistreatment by those meant to protect her.
Tarlitta, who attended the visit, shared her takeaways from the visit.
“She portrayed a life of unimaginable hardship not just as someone who was part of the Stolen Generation, but as someone who lives with a disability,” said Tarrlita.
“Aunty Jane shared how vulnerable she was and how she was taken advantage of. The biggest take-home message I received from her visit was that with the right supports, you can find your feet again. You can rebuild your life.”
Reflecting on the impact of Aunty Jane’s visit, Multicap Service Manager Tracey shared a powerful moment that deeply moved the team.
“She openly and bravely recounted how she was prevented from having relationships with her family, and how she was taken advantage of from a young age by people who were supposed to care for her. But throughout her story, she still laughed and smiled.”
Now living independently with support, Aunty Jane proudly describes herself as “free as a bird”, a phrase she repeated with joy and strength during her visit.
“I love her phrase, and she deserves every wonderful minute of her life,” said Tarrlita.
Tracey added, “Aunty Jane demonstrated how you can always find a positive to focus on, get on your feet again, and rebuild your life. She is a true inspiration to everyone.”
Her story, shared with such courage and warmth, left a lasting impression on everyone in the room. True inclusion means listening, learning, and honouring the lived experiences of those who have been silenced for too long.
Multicap extends a heartfelt thanks to Aunty Jane for her time, her wisdom, and her unwavering voice. Her presence was a gift and her story will stay with attendees for a long time to come.
Aunty Jane’s visit is a meaningful step in Multicap’s ongoing reconciliation journey—one that honours truth-telling, fosters cultural understanding, and amplifies the voices of First Nations people with disability. To learn more about our reconciliation initiatives and how Multicap is working towards a more inclusive future, visit multicap.org.au.