AUSTRALIA
The Australian
JOHN FERGUSON
From:The Australian
April 17, 2012
A WIDE-ranging inquiry into the handling of criminal abuse by religious organisations has been announced by the Baillieu government.
But the government rejected a royal commission and opted for a parliamentary investigation.
The terms of reference include whether there needs to be a legal overhaul to improve reporting processes and to better protect children.
The inquiry does not isolate the Catholic Church but includes all religions and also other non-government organisations.
The inquiry will have powers to compel witnesses to give evidence.
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