School abuse claims reach 300 schools as Victorian investigation doubles
A law firm is investigating abuse from more than 470 students at 300 Victorian schools, double the number since last year.
Arnold Thomas & Becker Lawyers has published a list of schools under investigation for historical abuse. Two writs have already been filed against Emmanuel College in Warrnambool and another against South Warrnambool Primary, which closed in 1994.
Allegations span from the 1960s to recent years. Staff members were moved between schools rather than reported or removed.
Survivors say schools ignored complaints and missed warning signs. The number of former students coming forward has doubled in less than 10 months.
Institutional failures can make the original harm worse, lawyer Nicole Elliott-Struth said.
- 300
- Schools under investigation
- 470+
- Students alleging abuse
- 180 (September 2023)
- Schools in initial list
- 1960s to recent years
- Allegations span
Why it mattersSurvivors can now pursue civil claims with no time limit in Victoria. The surge in cases shows the scale of institutional failure remains unknown.
