Jeremy Rockliff, Premier and Elise Archer, Attorney General and Minister for Justice,
There is no more important task for any Government than to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our children and young people.
That is why we established a far reaching Commission of Inquiry (COI), to ensure our most vulnerable are protected and past wrongs can never be repeated in Tasmania.
The COI is working exactly as it should, with people coming forward because the process is there to support them to do so.
The start of hearings tomorrow in Hobart will be difficult for many, but it is necessary and will give victim-survivors, their families and friends, and other relevant parties the chance to detail their experiences and shine a light on these matters, once and for all.
Hearings will run from approximately 10.00am to 4.00pm each day, with members of the public able to attend in person, or watch via a live stream on the COI's website.
We have ensured victim-survivors giving evidence are well supported by having access to counselling.
And for anyone who is affected, remember that support is available. If you do need to talk to someone, please don't hesitate to reach out to the following organisations:
- Lifeline (24 hours) 131 114;
- Beyond Blue 1300 224 636;
- Victims of Crime Service 1300 300 238;
- Sexual Assault Support Service (24 hours) 1800 697 877;
- Laurel House Northern Tasmania (03) 6334 2740;
- Laurel House North West Tasmania (03) 6431 9711;
- Blue Knot Foundation 1300 657 380;
- Child Abuse Prevention Services 1800 688 009;
- Strong Families, Safe Kids 1800 000 123;
- 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732;
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467;
- MensLine Australia 1300 789 978; or
- Relationships Australia Tasmania 1300 364 277.
