Personal Injury

St Bernard’s College in Essendon, Melbourne, has a history marred by allegations of historical child sexual abuse. Established in 1940 by the Christian Brothers, the institution has faced scrutiny over past misconduct by its staff members. Recognising these issues is essential for justice and healing.

Historical Context and Named Individuals

St Bernard’s College was founded to provide a quality education to young men in Melbourne. However, like many institutions of its time, it has been linked to disturbing incidents of abuse. Key individuals implicated in these cases include:

• Brother Robert Charles Best: A member of the Christian Brothers, Brother Best was convicted of multiple child sexual abuse offences across several schools, including St Bernard’s College, during the 1970s and 1980s. His conviction brought to light the suffering endured by students under his care and highlighted a broader failure within the system that enabled such abuse.
• Father Daniel Dominic Hourigan: Known for teaching English at St Bernard’s in the 1960s, Father Hourigan was later implicated in allegations of abuse at other institutions. Although the allegations surfaced after his time at St Bernard’s, his connection to the college remains part of its troubled history.

The revelations surrounding these individuals are part of a larger, painful narrative of abuse within Catholic institutions in Victoria. Many survivors have come forward, sharing their experiences to seek justice and closure.

Recent Allegations and Cultural Concerns

In recent years, St Bernard’s College has also faced additional allegations concerning its current culture. Reports in 2022 cited instances of misogyny, sexual harassment, and racism within the school, with claims that leadership overlooked complaints from female teachers regarding harassment and violence among students. These issues point to an ongoing need for change and accountability to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

Legal Recourse for Survivors

Survivors of abuse at St Bernard’s College have legal avenues to seek justice and compensation. At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, our team specializes in supporting those affected by institutional child sexual abuse. We understand the importance of addressing these wrongs and are here to guide you through every step of the legal process.

Seek Support and Justice with Koffels

If you or someone you know suffered abuse at St Bernard’s College or another institution, please know that legal options exist to hold these organisations accountable. Our Koffels Solicitors and Barristers team is committed to providing compassionate, confidential, and professional assistance to help you through this complex journey.