A statement from our CEO Kim Sykes on the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse and its final report:

The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has delivered a much-needed forensic examination of an extremely disturbing issue in our society.

We commend those who bravely told their stories – more than 8000 personal accounts providing an insight into the stark reality of child abuse, the impact on victims and the incredible measures taken by institutions to cover up incidents and protect offenders.

Victims continue to live with the experiences of that traumatic period in their lives which for many was further compounded by the disbelief or ignorance of their stories – until now.

The findings of the Royal Commission have delivered vindication to these victims and their families. 

It has also provided undeniable evidence of abhorrent behaviour toward children and a culture within some of our institutions that must never be repeated.

Support for victims is paramount and we would endorse any call for the development of a compensation system for the victims of child abuse at the hands of institutions that ensures they receive the support they need now and into the future.

It is also essential that funding and focus be directed to prevention; to the systems, controls and supports that ensure organisations can never again hide the sort of behaviour that the Commission has made public.   

Sexual abuse has far reaching consequences and our staff will continue to create a place where it is safe for people who have suffered trauma and to support them to get the assistance they need at the pace they wish.

Kim Sykes

CEO

Bendigo Community Health Services