Our society faces few challenges more pressing and important than responding to child sexual abuse, but very often the system fails to address the matter. Among the problems is the difficulty in defining and identifying child abuse, but also the cultural barriers presented in diverse communities such as Australia’s in order to effectively tackle the issue.
The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has been doing extensive research into the way that institutions such as schools, churches, sports clubs and government organisations have responded to allegations and instances of child sexual abuse. Finding out where systems have failed to protect children, the Royal Commission then makes recommendations on how to improve laws, policies and practice.
To further educate and engage communities, the Royal Commission is organising a multicultural forum for people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Melbourne. The Forum will take place at 6.00 pm on Tuesday 12 April at the Treasury Theatre (Lower Plaza, 1 Macarthur Street, East Melbourne). Its main aim is to inform culturally and linguistically diverse communities about the work of the Royal Commission, what has been learnt so far, and listen to ideas on how to ensure a safer future for children.
“It is important for the Greek community especially those who work in child care centres, schools, work in church groups or sporting groups to attend this forum,” said advocates Varvara Ioannou, founder and chair of the Food for Thought Network, and Maria Dimopoulos, managing director of Myriad Consultants.
“It’s therefore really important for us to become familiar with our state legislation and definition of child abuse and neglect and in this instance, sexual abuse.”
During the forum, Justice Jennifer Coate will provide an overview of the Royal Commission’s work and will invite questions and comments; Royal Commission staff will be on hand on the day to support people who wish to contribute.
If you have any questions and comments, contact the Royal Commission via stakeholders@childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au.
