Sydney, Australia, May 30, 2018 / 10:00 am
The Australian Catholic bishops confirmed Wednesday that they will participate in a national compensation program for survivors of child sexual abuse, pending the program's approval by the legislature.
The first non-governmental institution to join, the Australian Church's participation was established May 30 in a joint statement from Archbishop Mark Coleridge, president of the Australian bishops' conference, and Sister Ruth Durick, OSU, president of Catholic Religious Australia.
The bishops support the scheme and are "keen to participate in it," Archbishop Coleridge said, citing its formation under the recommendation of the Royal Commission and its administration by the Commonwealth.
"Survivors deserve justice and healing and many have bravely come forward to tell their stories."