Clock stopped for child abuse victims

Sky News
February 24, 2015

http://www.skynews.com.au/news/local/melbourne/2015/02/24/clock-stopped-for-child-abuse-victims.html

Child abuse victims no longer have to race against the clock when deciding to take legal action against their attackers.

New laws to be introduced in Victorian parliament will completely remove the limitation period for child abuse civil claims.

Currently civil claims must be brought within six years from the date the victim realises they have been abused or 12 years from the date of the alleged abuse.

A major hurdle felt by many people who were sexually abused as children has been removed thanks to the changes, Steve Betinsky, CEO of child abuse prevention organisation Child Wise says.

'As we know, victims can be as young as nine, and can take up to 22 years to disclose their abuse,' Mr Betinsky told reporters on Tuesday.

'Dealing with an issue as traumatic and complex as this, it takes time to work through that, it takes time to get the courage to speak about their abuse and takes time to heal.'

For many victims, the changes allow them to speak up when they feel comfortable, removing the pressure to act before they are ready, he says.

'Removing these limits on seeking damages will empower survivors to come forward when they are ready, and seek the support and healing they need.'

He called on the government to implement the 15 other recommendations by the Betrayal of Trust Inquiry and highlighted the need for early intervention and prevention.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says with Australia's first royal commission into family violence starting in Victoria this week, the time was right to fix the system.

Attorney-General Martin Pakula said time limits on civil claims were complex and often discouraged victims from bringing claims to court.

'Victims should have the right to commence legal action knowing that an expired time limit won't be used against them to knock their claim out of court,' Mr Pakula said.

The new legislation will be retrospective.