AHISA MEDIA RELEASE
19 December 2017 
 
The work of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse has helped heal the past and create a better future 

The Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA) has welcomed the final report of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

AHISA’s CEO, Ms Beth Blackwood, acknowledged the work of the Commissioners in fearlessly examining the failures of the past to ensure better protection for children now and into the future.

‘The Royal Commission has changed the community’s understanding of and attitudes to child protection,’ said Ms Blackwood. ‘Even before the issue of the Commission’s final report, the Commission’s research findings had initiated important changes in the practices of institutions charged with the care of children.’

Ms Blackwood said it was important to acknowledge the contribution of those survivors of abuse who came forward to tell their stories to Commissioners in private sessions and public hearings.

‘It is because of the courage of survivors and their willingness to speak of their pain and the impact of abuse on their lives and the lives of their family members that the Australian community has given such a strong and heartfelt response,’ said Ms Blackwood. ‘Australians agree, “This must never happen again”.’

Ms Blackwood said AHISA had made five submissions to the Royal Commission, and participated in Commission roundtables.

‘To inform its submissions, AHISA surveyed its members on a number of key issues raised by the Commission,’ said Ms Blackwood. ‘Our members are very aware that it is the role of school leaders to develop and sustain an organisational culture that supports child safe environments, and it was therefore important for AHISA to engage with the work of the Commission.’

Ms Blackwood said that the messages and recommendations that have emerged from the Commission over the last five years have been well and truly heard by school leaders.

‘One important change already introduced has been greater attention paid to what children themselves say about their protection,’ said Ms Blackwood. ‘Ensuring children’s voices are heard to create safe schools will be one of the many enduring legacies of the Commission.’

ENDS

Contact: Ms Beth Blackwood, AHISA CEO, mobile 0417 180 842 or [email protected]

The work of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse - Media Release (PDF)