Personal Injury

Another Leader Stands Up to be Counted in the Fight Against Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

In alignment with the fight against institutional child sexual abuse, it was noted in The Age newspaper on 20 June 2020 in an article by Journalist Simone Fox Koob, that the former Australian Idol winner, Natalie Gauci has commenced a Civil Claim in Victoria against the Catholic Archdiocese in Melbourne for sexual abuse suffered by her as a child.

She alleges that she was assaulted by convicted sex offender, Sigmund Leon Sokolowski when she was just 13 years of age, with the article going on to relate the experience of Ms Gauci and the impact it had on her into her adult life.

It is always a brave stance for anyone to step forward in these cases, particularly so when they are in the public eye. It is noteworthy indeed that Ms Gauci has stated that: “The more we talk about this, the more it won’t happen. Because it’s out in the open and it’s talked about”.

The intimidation of victims to remain silent, and the social impact of speaking out in the past has been damning; and became the very avenue by which these perpetrators remained undeterred for their appalling crimes against children. They got away with it because so many were afraid to speak out, those that did were either not believed, or punished for their trouble.

The positive today is, that the voice of those stepping up just gets stronger and stronger, leading the way and providing the strength for others to follow. Natalie Gauci is another leader, and we thank her for her courage and her voice, as no doubt will the others who feel they can now follow her lead.

If you feel you are ready to talk to someone about how you might proceed in a claim for abuse, you can contact us and we will listen in the strictest of confidence. Every individual on this journey needs to take the steps in the best way for them to cope. The first step is to make contact with those who have the experience to help. We care and are here to listen.

If you or someone you know is living with the trauma of Institutional Child Sexual Abuse, we urge you to seek professional help. Time shows us that these traumas of childhood live on into adulthood, and impact the victims and those around them over decades. It is important to know that there are those in the community who do stand up, do speak out, and do advocate for the protection of the vulnerable. If you choose to seek compensation speak to us and we will listen in the utmost confidence, and assist you wherever we can. Please do not hesitate to call Ross Koffel on 02 9283 5599 for assistance.