Statement on Final Report of Royal Commission - Full Text

The final report of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sex Abuse in Australia is the result of the Commission’s thorough efforts over the past several years, and deserves to be studied seriously.

The Holy See remains committed to being close to the Catholic Church in Australia – lay faithful, religious, and clergy alike – as they listen to and accompany victims and survivors in an effort to bring about healing and justice.

In his recent meeting with the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, Pope Francis said the Church is called to be a place of compassion, especially for those who have suffered, and reaffirmed that the Church is committed to safe environments for the protection of all children and vulnerable adults.