Statement from Archbishop Mark Coleridge, President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference
7 April 2020
The High Court of Australia has today announced that it has quashed Cardinal George Pell’s convictions on historical sexual abuse charges. The Court has ordered that he be released from prison.
Today’s outcome will be welcomed by many, including those who have believed in the Cardinal’s innocence throughout this lengthy process.
We also recognise that the High Court’s decision will be devastating for others. Many have suffered greatly through the process, which has now reached its conclusion.
The result today does not change the Church’s unwavering commitment to child safety and to a just and compassionate response to survivors and victims of child sexual abuse. The safety of children remains supremely important not only for the bishops, but for the entire Catholic community. Any person with allegations of sexual abuse by Church personnel should go to the police.
With thanks to the ACBC.
