Many adult survivors of child sexual abuse assume it’s too late to seek compensation. However, there’s no time limit for bringing a claim if you were abused as a child.

Ordinarily, personal injury claims expire within three years. However, the law changed in 2016, removing time limits for child abuse victims. This change applies retrospectively, meaning there’s no restriction on when the abuse occurred as long as it happened before you turned eighteen.

For previously time-barred claims, the legislation also provides an opportunity to reassert them. This exemption doesn’t extend to settled cases or those already awarded compensation by a court. Nonetheless, it removes a significant hurdle for unresolved cases. Our lawyers are actively involved in advocating for further reforms in this area, aiming to provide justice for survivors.

We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning you will not be financially out of pocket if compensation isn’t achieved.

The approach to proving sexual abuse depends on the legal cause of action and the potential defendant involved.

When taking legal action against an institution, we focus on establishing negligence under the Civil Law (Wrongs Act) 2002, and equivalent state-based legislation. This typically involves gathering evidence regarding what the institution knew or should have known about the perpetrator’s actions, including any prior incidents involving the perpetrator and their criminal history.

In cases involving individual perpetrators where negligence isn’t a factor, evidence such as police reports, medical records, and counselling documentation becomes crucial.

Our skilled lawyers will guide you on the evidence needed to substantiate your abuse claim.

We have expertise in pursuing claims for sexual abuse survivors against individuals and various institutions, including:

• Religious organisations such as the Catholic Church (including its religious orders), the Uniting Church, and the Anglican Church

• Government departments and facilities, like the Department of Community Services and the Department of Corrective Services

• Educational institutions including public and private schools, as well as boarding schools

• Professionals in health and other fields, such as doctors, and counsellors (psychiatrists and psychologists)

Absolutely. We have substantial experience litigating against individual perpetrators, including professionals.

One important consideration we’ll discuss with you is whether the individual or professional has the financial means to satisfy any awarded judgment.