Government Calls for Feedback on Abuse Inquiry

ABC News
November 19, 2012

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-11-19/government-calls-for-feedback-on-sex-abuse-inquiry/4380432

The Federal Government is calling for public feedback on the terms of reference for its royal commission into child abuse.

The inquiry was announced last week after the latest in a series of paedophilia allegations, most of which were directed at the Catholic Church.

The Government yesterday released a consultation paper that will be used to help frame the inquiry.

Stakeholders are being encouraged to give their views on how the commission should be conducted, who should be in charge and how long it should take.

"We want all stakeholders, especially survivors of child sexual abuse, their families and their advocates, to help shape the development of the royal commission," Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said in a statement.

"Getting the groundwork right is essential as it ensures the royal commission will be able to effectively investigate responses to instances and allegations of child sexual abuse in institutions."

A call centre established as part of the commission has received more than 170 calls since Friday.

The centre is recording people's contact details, which will be provided to the commission once it is established.

Labor senator Chris Evans says the Government wants to ensure everyone who wants to make a submission to the inquiry can do so.

"All individuals and organisations wishing to provide input into the royal commission will have ample opportunity to do so," he said.

The Government will hold consultation meetings with key stakeholders over the next two weeks, including survivors of child abuse, community leaders and religious organisations.

It aims to have the terms of reference finalised by the end of the year, with the commission to start its work in early 2013.