The Catholic Church supports the creation of an independent process that allows survivors of child sexual abuse to seek redress.
National Redress Scheme
The National Redress Scheme (NRS) commenced on the 1st of July 2018 with survivors of child sexual abuse able to approach the Scheme at any time until 30 June 2027. The NRS provides support to people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse.
Under the Scheme, applications for redress are evaluated by independent assessors who decide on the appropriate levels of financial and other support, such as counselling services. The Catholic Church and other institutions participating in the Scheme will meet the costs of redress that the Scheme determines.
Knowmore is a free and independent legal service that provides assistance to survivors of abuse by providing them with information in relation to justice and redress options that may be available to them.
National Redress Scheme
For people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse
www.nationalredress.gov.au
Call 1800 737 377
The National Redress Scheme provides support to people who have experienced institutional child sexual abuse. On 1 July 2018, the National Redress Scheme commenced, with survivors of child sexual abuse able to approach the Scheme at any time until 30 June 2027. Under the Scheme, applications for redress are made by independent assessors who decide on the appropriate levels of financial and other support, such as counselling services. The Catholic Church and other institutions participating in the Scheme will meet the costs of redress that the Scheme determines. People wishing to access the Scheme can visit the National Redress Scheme website or phone 1800 737 377.
Knowmore is an independent service giving free legal advice to assist survivors of abuse by providing them with information and advice about the justice and redress options that may be available to them. Legal advice is available through the Knowmore website or phone 1800 605 762.
Melbourne Response
The Melbourne Response is the process undertaken by the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne in the acknowledgment of the individuals and families impacted by accounts of sexual, physical and/or emotional forms of abuse perpetrated by the clergy and church personnel of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. Redress of up to $150,000 is available through the Assessment Panel chaired by the Hon. David Ashley AM. Counselling and support are available through Carelink for those who have received redress through Melbourne Response.
Complaints of sexual, physical and emotional abuse by clergy and church personnel of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne can be directed to:
Mr Jeff Gleeson QC
Independent Commissioner
(03) 9225 6422