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In Good Faith Foundation

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25.01.2022 The Federal Government have announced that they are going to allow a further ten sessions of psychological treatment subsidised through Medicare for Victorians. While you need a mental health care plan to access these sessions, your GP can do this over the phone. There are also a number of other ways you can access mental health help from home, some of which are outlined in the article linked below. IGFF can help talk through the process for Survivors and people affected by institutional abuse if you call us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] More information about the Medicare sessions can be read here: https://www.psychology.org.au//Federal-Government-decision?

25.01.2022 The Children of God Cult, described in this article, had powerful followings in Australia and New Zealand as well as internationally. Hope Bastines testimony and story also describes ongoing invalidating and re-traumatising processes that Survivors encounter on the path to justice. As she writes, I have refused to stay silent because it exacerbates the internalised shame and the mistaken idea that we somehow made our abusers do it to us. If you are finding it difficult to access this article and would like to, you can contact our team on [email protected] or (03) 9940 1533.

25.01.2022 The blight on the community comes from the communitys response to ostracise victims as though they are bringing the community into disrepute by speaking up, to support perpetrators, to celebrate them once theyre released from jail if they make big donations and to fail to hold to account those who are in positions of responsibility for the safety of children and fail. The IGFF team recommend subscribing to Manny Waks - newsletter for Kol vOz. This month, crucial commentary and updates are shared about the UK Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Assault.

24.01.2022 The design competition to create a National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse has now opened. The site will be a place of truth and commemoration, working to provide a dedicated and enduring place to reflect, pay tribute and remind future generations to be ever vigilant in protecting our children. To find out more, you can visit the competition's website here: https://rcmemorial.nca.gov.au/

24.01.2022 Were updating our website! While for now there may be outages on the page itself, we are still available on the phone or by email, on (03) 9940 1533 or [email protected]. Please dont hesitate to reach out if there is anything we can help you with from a phone call to check in, and support and advocacy that might be useful. During this time of change, we are ensuring that IGFF services continue with the least disruption possible. https://igff.org.au

24.01.2022 This article, shared by leader of the Melbourne Victims Collective Jim Boyle truly demonstrates the need for consistent child safe and trauma informed protections across institutions. It talks about the piecemeal and inconsistent changes that have been made in the Canadian Catholic Church, but resonates with choices that have been made all over the world, including in Australia.

23.01.2022 We hope that this means that she will now soon be extradited to Australia to face justice. Our thoughts are with the sisters who have been fighting to bring her back over this drawn-out process, over 60 court hearings and six years.

22.01.2022 Are you a community organisation looking to provide assistance during COVID-19, but dont know where to start? Or hoping to connect people to community led groups? IGFF partnered with community members and the Australian Youth Climate Coalition to create a Mutual Aid Database of different community groups and mutual aid organisations across Australia. You can access the database here: http://tiny.cc/9ibhlz This database also feeds into the Helpful Neighbours map, which can b...e helpful in locating specific groups in your local area: https://www.helpfulneighbours.com.au/find-mutual-aid For more information, you can get in touch with us on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected]. Now is the time for established organisations like In Good Faith to be supporting grassroots community efforts and helping to ensure that no vulnerable people get left behind as we tackle the COVID-19 crisis.

22.01.2022 The research is vital to us because, having been abandoned as children to live in an institution with strangers, facing institutional care once again as aged people is terrifying. Flinders University has just released a study that focuses on how institutional care Survivors need safer and more inclusive aged care, offering clear recommendations for providers.

22.01.2022 IGFF CEO Clare Leaney and Councillor Jake Keogh caught up earlier this week to talk about the actions local governments can take to support and protect people living in their communities, particularly with regards to institutions that are refusing to sign on to the National Redress Scheme.

21.01.2022 IBAC has dismissed the interference claims reported in Italian newspapers last month, as there is not enough substance to warrant an investigation. As we stated when these reports first came out, it is not okay that Survivors’ stories and lives are used as political weapons.

21.01.2022 Knowmore have put together a video explaining the Independent Review of the National Redress Scheme. It has also been announced that the feedback study with specific questions for people to answer will now be released in late September for four weeks: https://www.nationalredress.gov.au//second-anniversary-rev You can give feedback on any aspect of the Scheme, and dont have to be in the process of applying in order to do so. If you want to talk more about what this means, you can chat with our team by calling (03) 9940 1533 or emailing [email protected].

18.01.2022 The Continuous Voices project is currently holding an exhibition of sculptures made by Survivors of sexual violence, exploring what a permanent memorial in Ballarat could look like.

18.01.2022 At the most recent Knox Council Meeting, Jake Keogh, Councillor in the Knox City Council spoke to the importance of local councils supporting Survivors in their municipalities. He talks in particular about a case study from the Royal Commission, and we recommend listening with care and caution. If you need support, or just want to talk more about the National Redress Scheme and how communities and local government are acting, you can call IGFF on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] and one of our case workers will get back to you.

17.01.2022 While the Anglican Church in Tasmania is how anticipating that 165 Survivors will come forward, after their initial estimate of 150, lawyers and advocates are suggesting that number is conservatively low. Kimberly Allen from Shine Lawyers has stated: "When you consider the current projections from the National Redress Scheme, anticipating in excess of 60,000 applications, and that's just applications for redress across the country, the numbers, put forward from the diocese certainly do seem conservative, particularly when you then take into account civil law claims as well."

17.01.2022 This week, Vincent Ryan was released from prison. He remains a priest. In the words of IGFF CEO Clare Leaney: "It is inconceivable to any reasonable person that members of the clergy, who are convicted of heinous crimes against children, are not automatically defrocked. Survivors of institutional abuse are again reflecting on the tremendous trauma of the past and ongoing pain of the present. Today, as with every day, we stand with you and we honour your courage."... IGFF provides support and advocacy to Survivors, families and communities impacted by institutional abuse. You can get in touch with our team by calling (03) 9940 1533 or emailing [email protected].

16.01.2022 The way the media reports on mental illness, violence and trauma has a huge impact on people individually, as well as how the wider community sees these things. While a lot still needs to change, these and other guidelines around trauma-informed reporting will hopefully provide a good starting point for things to change. IGFF provides support and advocacy to Survivors of institutional abuse. If you want to talk more about what we do, or what we can help you with you can call (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] for one of our case workers to get in touch.

16.01.2022 "You cant keep putting us through this. You are turning a blind eye. All we want is for you to stop this and allow us to enter the redress scheme and get on with our lives. For years in Ireland, a group of Survivors from the Creagh Lane School have been travelling to Dublin to protest the countrys Redress Scheme delaying their applications. This comes too in response to the Irish Department of Education slowly implementing the ruling from the European Court of Human Right...s that the state shared responsibility for abuse that happened in national schools. This reflects issues with redress delays internationally, as older Survivors in particular experience re-traumatising delays and waiting times. IGFF provides support and advocacy for Survivors in Australia. If you would like to talk to one of our team, you can call (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected].

16.01.2022 "Back then, if you said anything about your anxiety, depression or fears, you were labelled weird or soft, and banished. I never had the courage to ask for help." This article shares footballer Rod Owen's story of survival and recovery. Please do read with care, as it discusses child sexual abuse, suicidal ideation and addiction. IGFF provides support and advocacy services to Survivors of institutional abuse. You can contact our team on (03) 9940 1533 or at [email protected].

16.01.2022 IGFF commends Jake Keogh, Councillor in the Knox City Council for committing to action to support Survivors of institutional abuse in his municipality. As he writes, "We as a community need to help and protect anyone who suffered this inconceivable pain." More on his motion can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/1571765596459241/posts/2379683059000820

16.01.2022 "All we're asking is that the church remove him while it's investigated, and that these allegations are taken seriously. It shows that the church has not learnt from its mistakes of the past there is something terribly wrong when it cannot deal with someone as powerful as a bishop." A Catholic priest has gone public with concerns about the response to allegations against the Bishop of Broome. Bishop Saunders has not been removed while investigations by both the police and Vatican continue. This article outlines the specific allegations against priests who have worked in the Kimberley, and we recommend reading with care. IGFF can be contacted for support on (03) 9940 1533 or [email protected]

15.01.2022 The UK Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Assault has just concluded its public hearings into Child Protection in Religious Organisations and Settings. We hope that the testimony and stories of those coming forward will lead to further accountability and change. More information about the Inquiry itself can be found below, as the inquiry has and will into a wide range of institutions. https://www.iicsa.org.uk/

14.01.2022 "It's chilling in terms of the amount of horror that was experienced." The US Boy Scouts estimated that between 1,000 and 5,000 Survivors would seek compensation. But after their widespread advertising campaign, close to 90,000 claims have now been filed. IGFF can provide support and advocacy to Survivors of institutional child abuse in Australia. To get in touch, you can contact us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected]

14.01.2022 The federal Opposition have claimed that it would take half a century for the estimated sixty thousand eligible Survivors to have their National Redress Scheme claims processed due to delays and inconsistent internal processes. Whether you are specifically considering engaging with the Scheme, considering a range of options, or want to talk more broadly, IGFF can provide support and advocacy. You can call us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected], and a member of our team will get in touch.

13.01.2022 They are not going to change. They are who they are and anything imposed is going to have loopholes, so there has to be some external protection. Former Jehovahs Witness Survivors and Elders have provided testimony to the UKs Independent Inquiry calling for mandatory reporting. These updates reflect on the systemic issues that mean the institution is not going to be held accountable in Australia through the National Redress Scheme, as they have openly chosen not to join on. If you are seeking support, or simply want to talk about these issues, you can call IGFF on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] and a member of our team will get in touch.

13.01.2022 Every region has its own authenticity it is different to the next. To have healing centres where people have a sense of belonging, will heal the trauma. Earlier this year, the government opened consultations around the planned National Centre for the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse. They have now published a Report of their findings, which covers both what services are working well, and where there are key gaps and things that should be prioritised in forming the centre.... As another participant wrote: Greater awareness not only protects children but also challenges stigma and encourages help seeking. The selection and tender process for establishing the centre has also now been opened.

13.01.2022 Recently, IGFF CEO Clare Leaney caught up with Jake Keogh, Councillor in the Knox City Council to talk about how local governments can support Survivors and vulnerable people in their municipalities. In particular, they discussed the actions that can be taken against institutions that have refused to sign onto the National Redress Scheme. IGFF provides support and advocacy for Survivors, families and communities impacted by institutional abuse. If you would like to talk more about our services, or chat to one of our case workers, you can call us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected].

12.01.2022 This week, legislation commences in the Northern Territory that will let adult Survivors speak publicly about their experiences, using their own identities and letting them control how they share their stories. knowmore has described what this means, writing: "Under the Sexual Offences (Evidence and Procedure) Amendment Act 2020 survivors in the Northern Territory will no longer need to apply for a court order to disclose their identities or speak publicly, provided there are no court proceedings pending. Also commencing today in the Northern Territory is the Evidence and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2020 which expands the use of video conferencing in court and increases protections for vulnerable witnesses."

12.01.2022 This article shares confronting stories of child abuse in Victoria’s residential care system, which urgently needs to change. In it, the Commissioner for Children and Young People, Lisa Buchanan reflects: "I think as a whole community we like to think of ourselves as a community that really prioritises children, that really nurtures and looks after our children. But actually I don't think we are right, I think we are kidding ourselves."

11.01.2022 This study, from Swinburne University of Technology, outlines some confronting information about cycles of victimisation and the experiences of Survivors of child abuse. As the authors conclude, "We mustnt lose sight of the strength and resilience shown by survivors in the face of adversity." IGFF provides support and advocacy to Survivors, families and communities impacted by institutional child abuse. If you would like to talk about what this means, you can call us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] to speak confidentially to one of our case workers.

11.01.2022 Our newsletter this month includes a broad look at the first half of 2020 and some other recent updates. The IGFF team continue to provide crucial support and advocacy work remotely, and if you have any specific questions about our work or anything in this email you can get in touch with us on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected]. https://mailchi.mp/6/welcome-to-the-igff-newsletter-8215852

11.01.2022 "I am proud of everyone who tells their history and I am proud of those who dont. I have lived both, the not telling of such a history and finally the telling of it." In this article, Gerry Georgatos talks about both his own experiences, as well as the importance of being able to address trauma and work for reparations and redress as a community, addressing each Survivors individual needs.

10.01.2022 Disabled people dont see ourselves represented across all parts of society. In 2020, we are still fighting for equal opportunity in education, work and recreation, and we are not represented in leadership positions advising government on disability. We should be. We are the experts. We live with disability every day of our lives. We live in a world not designed for us, so we know how to pivot. We know how to deal with the isolation that a lack of access brings, and the poverty that comes with it too. People with Disability Australia have published a piece about experiencing lockdown as a disabled person, and the need for representation in leadership positions. This is particularly important when considering the effect of Covid-19 on Survivors and across communities.

10.01.2022 The Vatican have published their updated handbook for religious leaders to guide their responses to abuse allegations. While the handbook now recognises a "minor" as anyone under the age of 18, it still means that the process for addressing complaints is internal. If a crime is believed to have been committed, IGFF would suggest that the correct people to handle it are the secular authorities instead. For support and advocacy you can contact us on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected]

09.01.2022 The argument that children can "consent" to abuse made by Leifers defense is disturbing and absolutely untrue. This article provides a useful update and guide to what is going to happen next in the #BringLeiferBack extradition process. IGFF provides support and advocacy to Survivors and those affected by institutional abuse. You can contact our team for support, or to talk about what kinds of support would work best for you, on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected].

09.01.2022 The second anniversary review of the National Redress Scheme is going to be open until September 30 2020. All Survivors are encouraged to have their say, including people who have decided not to apply for redress. Knowmore have published fact sheets explaining the process, and offering suggestions and tips on how to make a submission and practice self-care. If you are thinking of making a submission, but worried in any way, or would just like to talk about it, you can call IGFF on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] and one of our case workers will be able to get in touch.

09.01.2022 This survey is seeking your views on the purpose and key attributes of the National Memorial for Victims and Survivors of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse. What the design itself will look like will be determined early next year in a competition, but this survey is a way to give feedback on what it must include, as well as your thoughts on what the design should look and feel like. The survey is anonymous and intended to be sensitively designed so that Survivors can share their thoughts. if you are in need of support you can get in touch with our team on (03) 9940 1533 or [email protected]

09.01.2022 "Two years ago today the parliament on behalf of all Australians apologised unreservedly to the victims and survivors of institutional child sexual abuse," Mr Morrison said. "It's a day that I will never forget, and nor should we." This article tracks the progress of the National Redress Scheme and the Royal Commission's recommendations.

08.01.2022 "Up until two years ago you never had any option to take action against an institution, you had to take whatever the institution gave you and that was it. All of a sudden Survivors have got options." Over 100 Survivors of mainly physical abuse at Ashley Youth Detention Centre in Tasmania have started a class action. If you have questions about justice and redress options or how we can provide support, you can contact us on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected].

08.01.2022 This issue is hardly historical it is happening now. If there is further evidence, as Smiths book suggests, of failure by Catholic officials in the investigation of suspected child sex abuse cases, then another judicial inquiry is justified. These issues in the Maitland-Newcastle are not historical, as the recently published book The Altar Boys reveals. Survivors, families and communities deserve to see the final report of the Royal Commission. This article discusses suicide, and we recommend reading with care. You can contact our team on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected].

08.01.2022 You give us hope, you give us hope that somebody is going to listen. The Ngarra Jarra Noun team provide support, and cultural healing, for Aboriginal Survivors of institutional child abuse. This video shares reflections on going on one of their healing camps.

08.01.2022 The Disability Royal Commission’s interim report has been released, and they are asking for a 17-month extension in order to address interruptions. Many of IGFF’s clients are people with disability, and we believe that the discrimination, violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation being detailed in this report must be addressed. In order for this to happen, people need to be able to share their stories with full confidentiality.

07.01.2022 In Victoria recent changes in legislation mean that Survivors who have spoken publicly about their experiences may need to apply for a court order in order to continue doing so. IGFF have called on the Victorian Government to change this immediately, as until this remedy occurs, thousands of Survivors of sexual abuse, their families and supporters will have lost confidence in the justice system and the Government. We welcome recent announcements recognising the urgency of th...is problem. You can read our full media release here: https://igff.org.au//Sexual-Assault-Gag-Law-Media-Release. You can read recent news coverage of the issue here: https://www.abc.net.au//letusspeak-campaign-sexua/12608322 IGFF provides support and advocacy to people affected by institutional abuse. You can call us on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] and one of our case workers will get back to you.

07.01.2022 The Continuous Voices project to build a memorial to all Survivors of sexual assault in Ballarat has two projects now open to adult Survivors in the region who would like to get involved. Finding Light is going to be a photography course that will culminate in the production of a book, focusing on the way light can change the way we see the world around us. Words Out will be a series of writing workshops which will culminate in a spoken word music video sharing personal stories. All participants can be completely anonymous, and all of the artists have been trained in trauma informed principles. The Ballarat Centre Against Sexual Assault will provide professional support on the day.

06.01.2022 These updates in the #BringLeiferBack extradition hearing process are deeply disturbing. The thoughts of the IGFF team are with Dassi Erlich; Beyond a Survivor and her sisters as they endure the lengthy and futher traumatising journey towards justice.

05.01.2022 In Queensland, mandatory reporting laws will now apply to priests. This is a key recommendation of the Royal Commission, and will bring the state into line with other places in the country, as well as bringing priests into line with other professions. The new laws will also prevent offenders from using their social standing to lessen their sentence, when this very social prestige is often a key part of their offending. IGFF can be contacted on (03) 9940 1533 or emailing [email protected].

05.01.2022 Have you subscribed to our monthly newsletter? This month we reflect on some key parts of what we've been up to, and introduce a few more members of our team. If you have any more questions about what we've been up to, how we can support Survivors, or any of our services, you can leave a message for us to call back at (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected].

05.01.2022 As our office is based in Victoria, the IGFF team have been following governmental guidelines around Covid-19 closely. With todays updates about the public health crisis, the State Government has announced that face coverings will be mandatory everywhere in Victoria from 11.59 pm Sunday. We understand too that this is a stressful time, especially for many people in our community. Our team continues to provide support remotely, and you can leave a message on (03) 9940 1533 for a call back to discuss coping strategies with one of our case workers, or email us at [email protected]

04.01.2022 Vincent Ryan remains a priest. While the Church have announced that they have removed his faculties, and cannot say Mass or conduct sacraments, he is entitled to support and retains the status conveyed by his title. Given the nature of his offending, and its ongoing impact on his victims and Survivors, anything short of full laicisation is not good enough. IGFF provides support and advocacy to Survivors of institutional abuse in Australia. Please read these updates with care, and you can contact our team on (03) 9940 1533 or email [email protected] and we will get in touch.

04.01.2022 This survey, for people working across the mental health field in Victoria, is a great opportunity for us to share our views about how things can be improved.

02.01.2022 While the most recent Malka Leifer extradition hearing in the process to #BringLeiferBack was closed to the public, those present who are quoted in this article express hope that the extradition to Australia will be able to proceed and bring the case one step closer towards justice.

01.01.2022 More institutions have joined onto the Scheme, which means that Survivors from these organisations will be able to have their applications processed. The Marella Mission Farm, Waverley Emergency Adolescent Care, Alexandra Babies Home, Shiloh Home, Roelands Native Mission Farm and Valima Hostel and Gilead Boys Home are all going to be able to have Redress applications, with the state governments agreeing to fund the process. Whether you are considering Redress or other justice pathways, or just need to talk, you can contact us on (03) 9940 1533 or by emailing [email protected].

01.01.2022 In a unanimous vote, Knox City Council has passed Jake Keogh, Councillor in the Knox City Councils motion and will make all institutions refusing to participate in the National Redress Scheme ineligible for Council grants and funding, as well as ineligible to access Council facilities, participate in community events or receive permit to distribute information on Council property. We urge other municipalities to follow their lead, and show support for Survivors.

01.01.2022 In Good Faith Foundation is a nation-wide support and recovery service, providing case management and advocacy support to Survivors, families, whistle-blowers and communities impacted by institutional abuse.