The Diocese of Sydney has agreed to participate in the Commonwealth Government’s Redress Scheme for survivors of child sexual abuse. 

In March, the Diocese welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement of the scheme and reiterated its commitment to ‘meeting its responsibilities towards those who have suffered because of the appalling acts which have been perpetrated on vulnerable children in our care’.

A Diocesan redress policy has provided care and assistance payments for survivors of child sexual abuse since 2004 but the Standing Committee of the Diocese has now officially confirmed its participation in the Commonwealth Redress Scheme for Institutional Child Sexual Abuse.

The Archbishop of Sydney, Dr Glenn Davies, welcomed the decision and commended the Federal Government for establishing the scheme, the legislation for which is currently before the Senate.

“The suffering of those who have been abused can never be overestimated. We must face any failures of the past with integrity, honour, repentance and compassion.” Dr Davies said.  

As further details of arrangements become known, the Diocese will work in conjunction with the Federal Government, through the new company being established by the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Australia.