UNLESS you are one of those affected by sexual and physical abuse, it’s difficult to imagine preparing yourself to give evidence at the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse.
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There have been many people who have taken that brave step, supported by family, friends and organisations established to help abuse victims when they make the decision to give testimony.
For Rhonda, a woman who has recounted the horrors of her time at the former St John’s Orphanage in Thurgoona in recent weeks, that important step has been overshadowed by fears others in her situation may not get the opportunity to do the same.
Rhonda has highlighted a decision by the federal government to transfer $6.7 million from the royal commission to the home insulation inquiry.
While Prime Minister Tony Abbott says the royal commission is fully funded and likely to be extended beyond its wind-up date of December next year, there are still fears among victims that some perpetrators may escape if their activities are not brought to light.
The message needs to be made clear — regardless of the funds transfer — that submissions to the royal commission will continue to be accepted.