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New Legislation for People in Religious Ministry

New Legislation for People in Religious Ministry

People in religious ministry must report child abuse in Victoria from 17 February 2020 under recent changes to the Children, Youth and Families Act.

These people now come under mandatory reporting requirements as part of the Victorian Government’s commitment to the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Sexual Abuse. In summary, reporting must occur if a reasonable belief is formed that a child under age 17 is suspected to, or has experienced physical or sexual abuse. We would encourage anyone to report any suspected or actual child abuse.

Religious confession privilege will no longer apply under any legislation including Children, Youth and Families Act, Crimes Act and is no longer a reasonable excuse or exemption under the failure to disclose offence.

Call 000 Victorian Police if you have a report that is life threatening.

Call 13 12 78 Child Protection if you have an after hours report regarding the immediate safety of a child or young person

Child Protection

North Division Intake: 1300 664 977

South Division Intake: 1300 665 795

East Division Intake: 1300 360 391

West Division Intake (metro): 1300 664 977

West Division Intake (rural and regional): 1800 075 599