Australian Federal Government National redress scheme obtains funding, but Victim’s still wary

The Australian Federal Government has announced that it will be setting up a Commonwealth Redress Scheme for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse.   It is inviting states, territories and other non–government institutions to join in the Commonwealth scheme to deliver redress to the survivors of childhood abuse.

An initial $33.4 million in this year’s budget has been set aside to establish a national redress scheme to assist in providing compensation for child sexual abuse victims.

This money will be used to ensure redress is provided by the responsible institutions, for survivors of institutional child sexual abuse across Australia, but requires these responsible institutions to “opt-in” to the scheme.

Various institutions like The Marist Brothers’ Province of Australia are in support of a National Redress Scheme, and have stated that they “support the development of a national redress scheme.”

Many abuse survivors however, aren’t as supportive of the scheme, with one of the only certainties of the scheme known at the moment is that compensation amounts will be capped at $150,000.  Many victims and support groups do not believe that this is adequate.

A spokesperson for the Australian Lawyers Alliance believes the compensation figure is inadequate and has stated that “For someone who has had a lifetime of suffering which has affected every aspect of their life, $150,000 goes nowhere.”   

Due to the fact that the Commonwealth cannot force institutions to participate in the scheme, it could well fall apart.

Given the uncertainties surrounding the proposed National Redress Scheme, it is a worthwhile decision therefore, for victims seeking justice and compensation, to explore the option of commencing court proceedings against the institution where abuse took place.   

At Koffels we have a team of Sexual Assault Lawyers, who are experienced in claims of this nature, and can provide advice, support and help to victims.   We advise that if you have experienced Childhood Sexual Assault please do not hesitate to contact our office for a confidential discussion.

William Yeo

Solicitor