Father placed me in an orphanage around 3 or 4years. I was made a ward of the state some time later, don't know when. When you are made a ward of the state, I think it means that your parents don't want to look after you. My father remarried and had two children who are now grown up. We were taboo in his new household. I grew up in an orphanage in Mill Street, Ballarat. I lived in Ballarat till 13 then was moved to Mornington till I finished high school. My father did not make contact with me, however I contacted him when I was 13 and I stayed with him for a week. No contact since then from him. I am now 55 years old and all this time he disowned me. Why! His hatred for my mother. Mother apparently had mental problems and could not look after us.But not sure of those details. No parent supported me. Mother now dead. What I need to know is can I sue my father for abandoning me, and denying me of a proper home, and pretending I did not exist, it was not my fault that he hated my mother and hence I had to pay for it. I believe he is quite wealthy, and not once have I received any money or help from him. I have had to struggle all my life, health issues, financial etc He had a responsibility, he shut me out and continues to do so, no matter how or when I contact him. Please advise if there is a law within Australia, Melbourne if I can sue my father for abandonment. Thank you

You may sue him for all-you may sue him that he is not the General-governor or you may sue him that he has never eaten pizza.
Unlawful abandoning a child is a criminal offense in Australia. It depends on the particular circumstances of the case and factors such as whether the child has died or suffered harm as a result of being abandoned.
The key factor is "Unlawful" and it is not your case.

You might have success if you try to sue him for Intentional infliction of emotional distress.