Historical Child Sexual Abuse in Beaumaris Primary School: Report Unveiled
The 2024 report by the Board of Inquiry into historical child sexual abuse at Beaumaris Primary School and other government schools, chaired by Kathleen Foley SC, has been officially published. This landmark investigation, prompted by long-standing allegations, provides a detailed account of the abuse experiences from the 1960s to the 1990s, outlining the Department of Education's failures in protecting children. The report acknowledges the strength of survivors and offers recommendations aimed at healing and systemic improvement. These include a public apology, the establishment of a memorial, and a statewide truth-telling process. The findings underscore the need for acknowledgment, accountability, and action towards preventing future abuses.
A note on content The Board of Inquiry acknowledges that this report contains sensitive information and views about allegations of child sexual abuse that may be distressing to read, particularly for those individuals whose experiences are directly or indirectly referenced.
Please take care of yourself and read this report with consideration for your own wellbeing.
We also wish to advise First Nations readers that information in this report may have been provided by or may refer to First Nations people who have died.
If you or someone you know needs support, the following services are available:
• 1800 RESPECT, call 1800 737 732 24-hour sexual assault and domestic violence support
• Sexual Assault Crisis Line Victoria, call 1800 806 292 24-hour support for people who have experienced sexual assault
• 13 YARN, call 13 92 76 24-hour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support
• Beyond Blue, call 1300 224 636 24-hour mental health support
• Lifeline, call 13 11 14 24-hour crisis support.
If you are in a situation that is harmful or life-threatening, contact emergency services immediately on triple zero (000).