The Albanese Labor Government welcomes the announcement by Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) that it will assume responsibility for current and future payments owed by Christian Brothers under the National Redress Scheme.
The past few weeks of uncertainty have been difficult for victim survivors of abuse in institutions run by the Christian Brothers. They should never have been put in the position of wondering whether their claims would be met.
No level of compensation can undo the profound harm experienced by victim survivors of child sexual abuse. But we know that redress - including counselling, apologies, and financial compensation - can play an important role in helping survivors feel heard, believed and supported.
We now expect that EREA, like all Redress Scheme participants, will act in good faith to resolve all current and future redress matters concerning them or the Christian Brothers.
The Albanese Labor Government will continue to do everything in our power to ensure the integrity of the National Redress Scheme is upheld.
As the details of today's announcement are worked through, I want to assure victim survivors that applications under the Redress Scheme concerning the Christian Brothers can continue to be lodged and will be processed.
Victim survivors with any questions or concerns about today's announcement should contact the Scheme on 1800 737 377 Monday to Friday local time or visit the Scheme website. Victim survivors can also contact Redress Support Services for advice and support: Redress Support Services | National Redress Scheme.
