AUSTRALIA
The Right Reverend Keith Slater – BISHOP OF THE ANGLICAN DIOCESE OF GRAFTON

Following is a public statement by the Right Reverend Keith Slater regarding the management of claims of abuse by the Diocese of Grafton at the North Coast Children’s Home in Lismore NSW.

Since 2006 the Diocese of Grafton has received a number of claims alleging acts of physical, psychological and sexual abuse at the North Coast Children’s Home in Lismore NSW. The abuse
took place over a number of decades (1940’s to 1980’s). The alleged perpetrators included staff at the Home, visiting clergy, members of holiday host families and other residents.

When the claims were initially received it was necessary to clarify the Diocese of Grafton’s legal liability for the actions at the Home. Legal opinion stated that the Diocese did not have a legal responsibility. However, given the Church’s recognised connection with the…