Thalidomide is the common name of the active ingredient in a tablet that was marketed to pregnant women to ease symptoms of morning sickness in the early 1960s. Though these pregnant mothers had no way of knowing the effects, taking one of these tablets at a crucial stage in the development of the foetus had the capacity to cause the malformation of limbs, facial features and significant internal injuries.

Today, the children of those women are aged in their early-to-mid 50s and as noted above they identify as survivors.

Throughout this inquiry, the Senate Community Affairs References Committee (committee) has received compelling personal accounts from thalidomide survivors and their families. Survivors told the committee about the ways their lives have been profoundly impacted and, in many aspects, diminished by the severe injuries caused to their bodies by thalidomide. These injuries have affected survivors throughout their entire lives, and includes: complex and chronic health conditions; significant disabilities requiring specialised supports; mental illness; poor social and emotional wellbeing; chronic pain; reduced life opportunities; and significant personal financial costs.

Despite these effects, thalidomide survivors are still fighting to retain their independence, their dignity and to have their voices heard. Thalidomide survivors urged the committee to support their request for compensation, support and an apology for their families.

The families of thalidomide survivors, particularly survivors' parents, spouses and children, live with the effects of what thalidomide did to the person they love. Evidence before the committee conveys the trauma, guilt, and life changing carer responsibilities experienced by survivors' parents. The spouses and children of survivors have missed life opportunities and continue to make considerable personal commitments as they provide care and support to their loved one.

This interim report focuses on the experiences of thalidomide survivors and their families in dealing with the severe challenges that thalidomide has presented. This report considers how thalidomide has affected survivors' lives and the lives of their immediate families, what supports are available and what supports they might need and whether they have the appropriate resources to live an independent and dignified life as they age.

In its final report, the committee will focus on the companies and institutions that existed at the time that thalidomide was distributed in Australia and whose actions allowed at least 100 Australians to develop serious debilitating disabilities. The committee's final report will include a more detailed examination of the role of the Australian Government, both at the time thalidomide was available for sale in Australia and its role in supporting thalidomide survivors in subsequent years. The final report will make final recommendations about the way Australia's thalidomide survivors should be supported going forward.