The Tasmanian man who sparked an inquiry into child victims of abuse in state care has died in hospital.

Walter Tusyn was the victim of abuse while in state care during the 1950s and 60s.

He told his story on the ABC'S Stateline program in 2003, prompting other victims to also speak out.

It eventually forced the government to announce an inquiry into the treatment of wards of the state.

The Ombudsman found many wards of the state had been victims of physical and sexual abuse during the same period, opening the way for compensation claims.

Beyond Abuse's Steve Fisher says the impact of Mr Tusyn's bravery in telling his story was enormous.

"He probably changed the lives of over 1000 people who now have been compensated," he said.

Mr Fisher says people are continuing to come forward to seek compensation as a result of the campaign.