NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme

On Thursday 17 May 2018, the Catholic Bishops of NSW — together with leaders of various advocacy groups who support victims and survivors of child abuse and other faith-based organisations that operate within NSW — wrote to each NSW government minister seeking change to the NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme. I enclose the letter (sample to The Hon. Pru Goward MP, Minister for Family and Community Services) and two attachments (found here). The letter was signed on behalf of all signatories by Hetty Johnson AM GAICD, founder and executive chair of Bravehearts Foundation Limited.

The letter was coordinated by the Director of Professional Standards and Safeguarding for the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong and sought the expansion of the NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme to ensure that the investigation and response to allegations relating to those in religious ministry were within the scope of the NSW Ombudsman. Currently, the scope is limited to those in religious ministry whose work has a direct connection with either a school or out-of-home care facility (eg, those working in ministry in a Catholic parish that has a connected Catholic parish primary school.)

The letter demonstrates the commitment of these various organisations in ensuring a system of best practice with respect to children and the implementation of the Royal Commission recommendations.

I strongly urge any person with a complaint of mistreatment or abuse to come forward to the appropriate authority. They can contact the police through the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or contact the children protection delegate in their relevant organisation who will also be able to offer support to anyone who is affected.

Most Rev Vincent Long Van Nguyen OFM Conv
Bishop of Parramatta
Catholic Bishops of NSW & ACT and Liaison Committee Delegate for the Professional Standards Office NSW/ACT

Attachments: NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme