Mandatory Reporting of Child abuse by people in religious ministry

Under the Children, Youth and Families Act, people in religious ministries are mandatory reporters of child abuse to Child Protection Services.

The legislation states that a:

“person in religious ministry means a person appointed, ordained or otherwise recognised as a religious or spiritual leader in a religious institution;”

The law makes it mandatory for ministers and other appointed religious leaders (including elders and deacons) to report child abuse, including when it is revealed to them during a confession.

Under the law, ministers and religious leaders face up to three years’ jail if they don’t report child physical and sexual abuse allegations. This law was supported by both the Government and the Opposition.

Mandatory reporting refers to the legal requirement for nominated groups to report a reasonable belief of physical or sexual child abuse to authorities.

Any questions about this may be directed to the Safe Church Unit.