The Church must not only be a safe place for children and young people but a place of welcome, Australia’s bishops said ahead of Safeguarding Sunday this weekend. Source: ACBC.
Catholics around Australia will mark Safeguarding Sunday on September 14.
Chair of the Bishops Commission for Professional Standards and Safeguarding, Bishop Greg Bennet, said every member of the Church has a responsibility for safeguarding.
Bishop Bennet said it was important to continue to work for healing and justice for abuse survivors.
“We commit ourselves to building a safe, hope-filled and welcoming Church, where children can thrive and lead lives of meaning and purpose,” Bishop Bennet said.
The Church has made significant steps in addressing the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
“The work of Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd has been pivotal and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards provide a consistent approach across the Church”, Bishop Bennet said.
“The safety of children and young people is our priority and we will not tire from our efforts to create a safe, hope-filled and welcoming Church,” he said.
The Church is showing national leadership in safeguarding services including:
- Professional development to boost the capacity of Catholic organisations
- Reviews, audits and assessments of Catholic organisations
- Managing the Australian Catholic Ministry Register
- Awareness and communication
“Safeguarding Sunday provides an opportunity not only to highlight steps being taken to protect our most vulnerable but celebrate the gifts and joy that children and young people bring to our congregations,” Bishop Bennet said.
Resources for Safeguarding Sunday can be found at: Safeguarding Sunday 2025 Resources.
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