The serious findings of a police review showing child sex abuse allegations involving former nurse James Griffin were not acted on over a period of a decade must result in vastly improved investigation practices for all survivors.
Shadow Child Safety Minister Sarah Lovell said it was shocking and unacceptable that allegations about Griffin were received by police over a number of years but not acted upon.
"It's not good enough that this information was in the possession of authorities but was not acted on with the urgency and the seriousness that was required," Ms Lovell said.
"It's unacceptable that it took a decade from the time that initial information was reported for authorities to act.
"It's beyond belief that even after police received a formal complaint two years ago, it took a period of several months for Griffin's workplace - the Launceston General Hospital - to be informed.
"Now that we understand the chain of events leading to this point, it's clear that this investigation was crucial and it's critical that these deeply disturbing findings are acted upon.
"Survivors need to be assured that they can come forward, their complaints will be acted upon with urgency and that they will be treated seriously.
"This is an horrific case and survivors and their families must be assured that a new review announced by the Premier today will leave no stone unturned and deliver tangible outcomes to improve safety for children.
"This case is being felt deeply in the community and survivors and their families need a guarantee that they will be heard."
Sarah Lovell MLC
Shadow Child Safety Minister
