The president of the Uniting Church in Australia, Stuart McMillan, has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of a national redress scheme for survivors of child sexual abuse in institutions.
“The Uniting Church strongly supports a single national redress scheme and I congratulate the Federal Government for its leadership on this issue,” said Stuart.
“A national approach has been identified by the Royal Commission as best meeting the needs of survivors.”
The scheme outlined by Social Services Minister Christian Porter will be led by the Commonwealth with states, territories and institutions invited to opt in on the principle that they fund the cost of their own redress claims.
The proposed scheme addresses concerns about funder of last resort arrangements where an institution no longer exists or has the capacity to pay.
“I note that survivor groups have welcomed the announcement, which is encouraging,” said Stuart.
“We will continue to work constructively with all parties towards the implementation of a sustainable national scheme which we believe provides the best possible opportunity for healing, justice and reconciliation for all those who have suffered.”
“At this time I’d urge State and Territory governments yet to commit to the national scheme to give it their urgent and positive consideration.”
The Uniting Church in Australia acknowledges, apologises and expresses its deep regrets to any children who were sexually abused in our care, and is committed to working with survivors to make amends for what happened in the past.
“We have learned from the past and from the Royal Commission and we continue to implement those learnings,” said Stuart.