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A landmark decision in Western Australia sets a significant precedent for access to justice for survivors of sexual abuse, argues one plaintiff firm.
Earlier this week, the Western Australian District Court awarded $1.3 million in damages for abuse survivor John Lawrence in proceedings against the Christian Brothers for abuse suffered.
“This is a momentous outcome today for all abuse survivors in Western Australia for whom seeking financial compensation should now be a much easier and fairer process thanks to the courage of Mr Lawrence,” she said.
“Today’s decision will help to set the standard nationally for the informal settlement of historical child sexual abuse claims which will greatly assist other survivors.”
Western Australia now “leads the way” when it comes to compensating survivors of historical abuse through civil claims, Ms Taylor posited.
“With this significant awarding of damages today the West Australian courts have acknowledged the substantial impact of historical sexual abuse on individuals, regardless of an individual’s social or economic background,” she submitted.
“It was particularly pleasing to see the court awarding historical damages against the Christian Brothers despite them appallingly seeking to rely on Mr Lawrence’s difficult childhood and educational history.
“This decision sends a strong message to institutions in Western Australia that it is now time to step up and do the right thing in properly compensating survivors or face the consequences.”
Jerome Doraisamy is the managing editor of Lawyers Weekly and HR Leader. He is also the author of The Wellness Doctrines book series, an admitted solicitor in New South Wales, and a board director of the Minds Count Foundation.
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Jerome Doraisamy
