An inquiry has revealed decades of failures in Victoria’s child protection system.

The inquiry into historical child sexual abuse at Beaumaris Primary School and 23 other government schools unveiled systemic failures that left children vulnerable to sexual predators for decades. 

The Victorian government, under the scrutiny of a detailed investigation, is now faced with the task of reconciling a dark past that prioritised the reputation of its education system over the safety of its pupils.

Established in June by the then-premier Daniel Andrews, the inquiry aimed to shed light on the extent of sexual abuse occurring from the 1960s to the 1990s. 

The final report (PDF), tabled in parliament, delivers a damning indictment of the Department of Education's inadequate policies and procedures, essentially failing to protect children from sexual predators within the system.

“The department woefully failed to protect children from the risk,” the report stated, highlighting a culture of inaction and cover-up that allowed offenders to remain within the education system, even after convictions and sentencing for child sexual abuse.

Voices from Sexual Assault Services Victoria and ACU's Institute of Child Protection Studies argue that the inquiry's recommendations, while necessary, may not fully address the need for justice or prevent future abuses without a broader implementation of a sexual violence strategy and prevention education.

Premier Jacinta Allan has thanked the victims for their courage and promised to consider the report's recommendations, including a statewide public apology and the establishment of a truth-telling and accountability process. 

The education department, criticised for its systemic failings, has expressed deep regret over the past abuses and reiterated its commitment to preventing such occurrences in the future. 

The inquiry's findings have prompted calls for a more extensive investigation into historical child sexual abuse within Victorian government schools, suggesting a need for a state-wide reckoning and meaningful reforms to ensure the safety and well-being of students.

As the Victorian government contemplates its response to this crisis, the community awaits meaningful steps towards healing and justice for the countless lives affected by these grave failures.

Anyone experiencing distress is encouraged to contact the following services; National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: 1800RESPECT, 1800 737 732 - Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380 - Lifeline: 13 11 14 - Headspace: 1800 650 890 - QLife: 1800 184 527 - ReachOut.com