Monday 15 January 2018

I congratulate and commend the survivors of institutional child abuse who fought to expose wrongs through the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The Royal Commission confirmed cover-ups of horrific abuse and torture of children with perpetrators protected, particularly in out-of-home care and religious bodies.

Importantly victims’ calls for reform have been validated with the final report recommending massive changes to build child safety into institutions, including in religious bodies, to prevent abuse and properly respond to complaints, as well as educational changes to empower children. The commission wants dedicated support and treatment services and a national redress scheme, information HERE.

While the Commonwealth Government has main responsibility, a large number of recommendations were directed at state governments, which regulate out-of-home care and are responsible for education curricula. I have asked the Premier to ensure prompt and comprehensive NSW Government action and will follow up in Parliament to keep up the momentum. My letter is HERE.