Goodbye job applications, hello dream career
Seize control of your career and design the future you deserve with LW career

Investigation for Beaumaris class action begins

A major class action firm has begun its investigation into historic child sexual assault in Victorian government schools.

user iconNaomi Neilson 08 March 2024 Big Law
expand image

A major class action firm has begun its investigation into historic child sexual assault in Victorian government schools.

Slater & Gordon’s investigation followed the release of a board of inquiry report that found major system failures occurred within Victorian government schools, including Beaumaris Primary.

Sam Carroll, Victorian abuse law and practice leader, said the Victorian government did not have appropriate policies or processes in place to protect children at these schools between 1960 and 1994.

 
 

“It is our preliminary view that these failures may give rise to a potential claim for those affected by abuse at Victorian government schools during this time,” Carroll said.

“Slater & Gordon is considering the best way to assist those affected by these findings to obtain the compensation they deserve.”

The inquiry recommended the state government apologise to victims and construct a memorial at Beaumaris.

Among its other recommendations was a state-wide truth-telling and accountability process for survivors, a restorative engagement program for victims who do not wish to make a civil claim, and legislative reform to protect personal information.

Premier Jacinta Allen said the government was prepared to engage with victim-survivors.

“Carrying these stories is a heavy burden, and while I know it won’t undo the pain, I hope that in sharing their experiences, that it has given victim-survivors at Beaumaris Primary and certain other government schools the recognition and support they deserve,” Allan told media.

The firm said the inquiry had been specifically directed not to address the possibility of compensation or redress arrangements.

Victim-survivors have been directed to contact Slater & Gordon.

Naomi Neilson

Naomi Neilson

Naomi Neilson is a senior journalist with a focus on court reporting for Lawyers Weekly. 

You can email Naomi at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.