The protocol was introduced on 1 February 2021 and provides a framework for Catholic entities across Australia to respond consistently to people raising concerns or allegations of child sexual abuse.
The protocol was developed following community consultation, including engagement with victims and survivors and their advocates.
The Archdiocese of Sydney
There are different pathways available to those who have experienced abuse within the Archdiocese of Sydney. We encourage those who have been abused by a member of the clergy or a worker of the Archdiocese, to bring forward their complaint.
Listed below are possible pathways to seek redress:
National Redress Scheme
As of 1 July 2018, the National Redress Scheme was established by the Australian Government in response to a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The National Redress Scheme requires the responsible institutions to offer redress by way of monetary means, counselling, support and a direct personal response, to eligible survivors of child sexual abuse.
The scheme is available to you if:
- You experienced sexual abuse when you were a child (under 18 years of age); and
- the abuse happened before 1 July 2018, and
- an institution was responsible for bringing you into contact with the person who abused you; and
- you were born before 30 June 2010; and
- at the time you apply, you are an Australian Citizen or a Permanent Resident
Eligible applicants may be entitled to receive a redress payment, counselling and a Direct Personal Response.
Civil Redress
Where civil redress is sought for sexual abuse, legal advice should be sought so that an informed decision can be made regarding the process and compensation options. In this case, your lawyer will initiate contact with the Archdiocese, or relevant Church Authority, directly.