The Church has rejected “unfounded allegations” made by West Australian politicians that it failed to abide by the state’s mandatory reporting laws, saying it takes its reporting obligations seriously.
A television network has run a number of stories based on the leaked report from the Church’s investigation into former Broome Bishop Christopher Saunders.
A statement released today from Australian Catholic Bishops Conference says despite allegations to the contrary, the Church has not breached-the Children and Community Services Act 2004, which applies only to children.
"Mandatory reporting obligations under the Act only apply to a child under the age of 18. Further enquiries were made after the report was submitted and no potential victims in the report were confirmed or identified as being under the age of 18," the statement said.
The Church has handed the report to WA Deputy Commissioner of Police, Allan Adams, and the Church and Police remain in ongoing and collaborative contact on the matter.
On August 28, 2021, the Vatican appointed Geraldton Bishop Michael Morrissey as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Broome following the Pope’s acceptance of the resignation of Bishop Saunders.
“The Church will continue to offer full transparency and cooperation with WA Police. The Church encourages anyone who has experienced abuse, or suspects abuse within the community, to come forward and report it to police,” said Bishop Morrissey.
The full statement from the ACBC can be found
here.