The safeguarding of all people in our care, particularly children and vulnerable adults, is a fundamental concern for the Australian Jesuit Province.
All within the Province are committed to creating and maintaining an environment that is safe, supportive, caring and nurturing for all children and young people. Our statement of commitment can be found here.
In 2016, the Province launched a comprehensive strategy to enhance professional standards for the safeguarding of children and young people.
The Province has detailed Policies and Procedures to ensure the safeguarding of all children in our care.
The Province has also entered into a partnership with the Australian Childhood Foundation, an independent organisation, which includes participation in their Safeguarding Children Program. The program includes training for all students, staff, Jesuits and volunteers within our organisation.
A Professional Standards Consultative Panel has also been set up to advise the Province on best practice approaches to child safety, redress and ongoing support for survivors of abuse and, where needed, the removal of Jesuits from ministry.
Australian Jesuit Provincial Fr Brian McCoy:
‘As Provincial of the Society of Jesus in Australia, I am committed to facing the truth about the abuse of children and young people that has occurred in our past and the terrible effects it has had on their adult lives.
‘To that end we are committed to accompanying and supporting survivors and their families through the healing process.
‘We condemn any abuse of children or young people, and offer an unreserved apology for the trauma caused by any Jesuit who betrayed others in this way.’
The broader Catholic Church
The Truth, Justice and Healing Council is coordinating the Catholic Church’s response to the Royal Commission with a commitment to cooperation, openness, full disclosure and justice for victims and survivors.
Principles and procedures relating to how Australian Church ministries engage in ministry are also outlined in the Towards Healing document, as well as the documents Integrity in Service of the Church and Integrity in Ministry.
Issues involving Church-related abuse are dealt with via the National Committee for Professional Standards.
Contact us
For any queries relating to Professional Standards contact:
Director of Professional Standards – Mr Simon Davies
Telephone: +61 (03) 9810 7300
Email professionalstandards@sjasl.org.au