Gerald Ridsdale: Yet More Child Abuse Admissions
Gerald Ridsdale, a former Catholic priest, has been one of Australia’s most notorious paedophiles. His recent court appearance in Bendigo Magistrates Court via video link from Port Phillip Prison in August 2024 has brought to light additional charges of institutional child sexual abuse, further extending his already extensive list of horrific convictions.
Recent Court Appearance
In August 2024, Ridsdale, now 90 years old, pleaded guilty to eight new charges involving the abuse of children between 1973 and 1981. These crimes occurred in various locations across Victoria, including:
- Inglewood,
- Ballarat,
- Apollo Bay,
- Horsham, and
- Mortlake.
He admitted to six counts of indecent assault and two counts of buggery involving children under the age of 14. Despite facing 62 charges, 56 were withdrawn, leaving the eight charges to which he pleaded guilty. His next court appearance is scheduled for February 2025 for a plea hearing.
Gerald Ridsdale’s Historical Abuse Admissions
Ridsdale’s history of child sexual abuse spans several decades, with multiple admissions over the years:
- 2017: Admitted to raping and indecently assaulting 12 more victims between 1961 and 1988 in western Victoria.
- 2022: Pleaded guilty to 13 additional sexual offences after two men came forward, revealing abuse that occurred in Mortlake in 1981 and 1982.
- 2023: Admitted to one count of indecent assault of a minor in the 1980s, following a victim-survivor’s revelation of abuse at St Brigid’s College in Horsham between 1987 and 1988.
- 2024: Most recently, admitted to eight new charges involving the abuse of children between 1973 and 1981.
Ridsdale is already serving a maximum of 40 years in prison for previous convictions involving the sexual abuse of at least 72 children during the 1970s and 1980s. His earliest possible release date is now extended to April 2028.
Encouraging Survivors to Come Forward
We understand the immense courage it takes for survivors to come forward and share their stories. If you or someone you know has been affected by Gerald Ridsdale’s actions, we encourage you to reach out. Seeking justice, compensation, and emotional closure can be crucial in the healing process. Our team is here to support you through every step of this journey.
