The West Australian government should give urgent and serious consideration to the recommendations made in the 'Seeking justice: Improving options for survivors of institutional child abuse' report released last Thursday, say lawyers for survivors of abuse.
"There are currently significant difficulties encountered by claimants and their legal representatives when attempting to access justice for historical abuse," said Mr Graham Droppert SC, past National President, Australian Lawyers Alliance (ALA). "This needs to change."
"This report provides detailed recommendations that, if implemented, will minimise the delays and the re-traumatisation that is often experienced today by survivors of institutional abuse when making legal claims.
"The report is an excellent example of what occurs when there is genuine stakeholder engagement. The problems have been identified and sensible solutions have been proposed.
"We are pleased to have joined with other organisations to advocate on behalf of those who suffered so seriously from institutional child abuse and deserve compensation.
"We call on the West Australian government to give serious and urgent consideration to the recommendations in this report.
"Many people have waited several decades before coming forward and once they tell their story and their claim is commenced, the process should not result in unnecessary delay and uncertain timeframes. Implementing the recommendations in this report will make a difference."
Read the full report here.
Read the ALA submission here.
