Monday 19 August 2013

MEDIA RELEASE
Royal Commission arrives in Melbourne
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse will be holding private sessions in Melbourne this week. Royal Commission CEO Janette Dines said that more than 200 people have already told their story in private sessions across the country and more than 2,500 people have shared their story with the Royal Commission over the phone or in writing. The private sessions are already contributing significantly to the Commissioners understanding of the nature and extent of the sexual abuse of children within institutions in Australia, Ms Dines said. Many of the personal stories which the Commissioners receive report a level of abuse and mistreatment of children which will shock many people, said Ms Dines. We understand how difficult it can be for people to come forward and talk about what happened to them, Ms Dines said. Trained counsellors are available to provide immediate support to anyone in distress, and we encourage people to bring a support person with them such as a friend or family member. This will not be the only opportunity for Victorians to come forward to tell their story. We will hold private sessions in Victoria as many times as it takes to hear peoples stories, said Ms Dines. Private sessions have been held so far in Perth, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and Canberra. People affected by child sexual abuse in an institution can register to tell their story by phone 1800 099 340 or email registerinterest@childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au If you need more information, including about support services, visit the Royal Commissions website at www.childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au Media enquiries: Ph: (02) 8282 3966 or email: media@childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au