Australian government commissions sex-abuse investigation

November 12, 2012

The Australian government has set up a federal commission to investigate charges of sexual abuse of children.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard ordered the investigation in response to rising public outrage over reports of abuse, especially by Catholic priests.

Cardinal George Pell of Sydney, who in the past had opposed the creation of a commission, welcomed the news, saying that "the air should be cleared and the truth uncovered." He promised that Church officials would cooperate fully with the investigation.

 

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Further information:

• Australia orders federal child sex abuse inquiry (AP)
• Cardinal Pell welcomes royal commission (Sky News)