The ACT Greens have unveiled a bill aimed at making institutions such as the Catholic Church, Scouts and sporting groups vicariously liable for the actions of those associated with them who have sexually abused children. Source: ABC News.
This includes priests, Scouts leaders, and sports coaches who may have a relationship with the organisation akin to employment, even though it is not strictly an employment relationship.
The move was prompted by a High Court ruling last year that found a priest, accused of child sex offences, was not an employee of the Church, so the institution could not be held vicariously liable for his actions because that only applies in employment relationships.
“I am deeply concerned that we are now seeing a situation where institutions that have had people abused in their care are now able to avoid responsibility because of this apparent lack of connection where people who were priests, coaches other roles, as part of these institutions, are now not seen to be covered by that organisation,” Greens leader Shane Rattenbury said.
Mr Rattenbury said the Council of Attorneys General was looking at the issue, but it was something that had to be addressed more locally.
He said he was hoping his private members bill would get some traction in the Assembly.
The bill will be presented later in the month.
FULL STORY
ACT Greens announce bill that would make institutions vicariously liable for sexual abuse by employees (By Elizabeth Byrne, ABC News)
RELATED COVERAGE
Grace Tame backs law changes to make institutions liable for sexual abuse of children (Canberra Times)
