Institutional Child Abuse at Chanel College Geelong
Chanel College in Geelong, once a prominent Roman Catholic boys’ school, was meant to offer students a safe and supportive environment. Established by the Marist Fathers in 1958, the school eventually came under the administration of the Christian Brothers in 1970. For many students, however, Chanel College’s legacy is one of suffering, as the school has since become associated with alarming cases of historical child sexual abuse. Survivors from this institution deserve justice, compensation and recognition, and legal avenues are available to help acknowledge their experiences.
The History of Chanel College
In the 1970s and 1980s, students at Chanel College endured mistreatment and abuse at the hands of trusted figures in the institution. Brother Edward Vernon Dowlan, a member of the Christian Brothers, taught at Chanel College during this period and was later convicted of multiple counts of indecent assault against students across several schools, including Chanel. His abuses, uncovered through survivor accounts and legal actions, reveal the darker side of institutions that were once seen as pillars of moral and educational leadership.
The impact of this misconduct extends beyond the isolated actions of individuals. During investigations by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Chanel College was among the Catholic institutions reported to have significant abuse claims. The Commission’s findings underscored a systemic failure within certain Catholic schools and homes across Victoria, pointing to an environment that enabled perpetrators and left survivors with unresolved trauma.
In 2015, Brother Dowlan was sentenced for offences committed against 20 boys across several schools, Chanel College among them. This conviction further brought to light the abuse suffered by vulnerable young students, highlighting a history that Chanel College and other similar institutions can no longer ignore.
A Path Toward Justice
For many survivors, coming forward is a painful but necessary step toward reclaiming their voice. At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, we stand with those who seek justice and accountability. Survivors of institutional abuse deserve not only to be heard but to see the organisations and individuals responsible held accountable. Taking legal action not only acknowledges the injustices suffered but also supports survivors as they seek to close this difficult chapter in their lives.
Seek Support and Justice with Koffels
If you or someone you know suffered abuse at Chanel College or another institution, know that there are legal options to hold these institutions accountable. At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, our team has extensive experience supporting survivors of historical child sexual abuse. We are committed to providing compassionate, confidential, and professional assistance to help you navigate this complex journey.
Contact us at +612 9283 5599 to discuss how we can support you or complete the call-back request form below to have one of our historical abuse specialists call you for free and in confidence to discuss your best path forward.
