Justice and financial compensation remain elusive for many survivors of institutional child sexual abuse. However, an international research initiative is set to leverage lessons learned from Australia to create a transformative framework for addressing institutional abuse.
Drawing on insights from major inquiries in Australia, New Zealand, and England and Wales, the study aims to assist governments in effectively addressing the ongoing challenges faced by survivors.
The research is spearheaded by legal experts Associate Professor Allison Silink (University of Technology Sydney), Professor Jodi Gardner (University of Auckland), and Professor Paula Giliker (University of Bristol).
Australia’s 2017 Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse stands as a landmark investigation, shedding light on systemic failures and outlining comprehensive recommendations for redress. Its findings, alongside those of the 2022 Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in England and Wales, continue to highlight the complexities survivors face in obtaining justice and fair compensation.
The upcoming decade since the Australian Royal Commission’s Redress and Civil Litigation Report presents an opportunity to evaluate the progress made in implementing reforms. Associate Professor Silink highlights this critical juncture:
“This is a pivotal moment to assess how Australia has addressed the Royal Commission’s recommendations, identify gaps in the redress system, and compare our progress with other jurisdictions. Our findings will shape the legal framework for future redress and compensation proposals.”
The inquiry also takes note of developments in New Zealand, where survivors await government announcements on redress following their Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.
Professor Gardner, the Brian Coote Chair in Private Law at Auckland Law School, underscores the importance of collaboration among these nations: “Australia, New Zealand, and the UK share legal heritage but are at different stages of reform. By analysing these inquiries and embedding victims’ voices, practical insights, and interdisciplinary research, we can develop guidelines that are legally practical and sensitive to survivors’ needs.”
Professor Giliker, a comparative law specialist, emphasizes the value of examining institutional child sexual abuse through the lens of diverse legal systems: “By uniting experts across jurisdictions, we aim to provide practical recommendations to improve access to redress for survivors.”
As Australia continues to reflect on the legacy of its Royal Commission, this international initiative positions the country as a pivotal force in shaping a future where survivors worldwide can access justice and fair compensation.
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