Witnesses Sought: Patrician Brothers College Liverpool 1970s Abuse Allegations
SYDNEY, 5 February 2026 – Koffels Solicitors & Barristers is seeking information from former students of Patrician Brothers College, Liverpool, regarding allegations of historical sexual abuse that occurred in the early 1970s.
The firm is assisting a survivor who alleges he was sexually abused while a student at the school, which is now known as All Saints Catholic School. The alleged abuse involved Brother Basil Downey, who served as Principal during that period.
About Patrician Brothers College
Patrician Brothers College was a Catholic boys’ school in Liverpool operated by the Patrician Brothers religious order. The school is now known as All Saints Catholic School and operates as a co-educational institution under different management.
The Patrician Brothers were a religious congregation founded in Ireland that established several schools across Australia during the 20th century.
Circumstances
The abuse is reported to have occurred on school grounds, including within office rooms, when the survivor was approximately 10 years old. The alleged offending took place on multiple occasions.
Criminal proceedings
In 2016, Brother Basil Downey was charged as an accessory after the fact in relation to separate historical sexual offences allegedly committed by Brother Peter Higgins in the 1970s.
Brother Downey was granted bail but passed away in 2017 before the criminal proceedings could be finalised. No conviction was recorded against him.
Witness appeal
Natalia Lapthorne, Special Counsel at Koffels Solicitors & Barristers, said the firm believes there may be others who attended the school during this period who could provide relevant information.
“We understand how difficult it can be to come forward, particularly decades after the events in question,” Natalia said.
“However, any information—even details that may seem minor—could be important in helping our client and potentially others who experienced similar abuse.”
Information sought
Koffels Solicitors & Barristers is seeking to speak confidentially with former students, staff members, or others who:
- Attended or worked at Patrician Brothers College, Liverpool, between approximately 1968 and 1975;
- Observed inappropriate, concerning, or unusual behaviour by staff, religious brothers, or other authority figures during this period;
- Experienced or became aware of similar abuse at the school; or
- Have relevant information about the school’s culture, supervision practices, or response to complaints during this era.
Information that may seem insignificant could prove valuable in establishing patterns of behaviour or institutional awareness.
How to contact us
Former students, staff, or anyone with relevant information can contact Koffels Solicitors & Barristers in complete confidence:
Phone: (02) 9283 5599
Email: info@koffels.com.au
Online: Complete the free and confidential callback form below:
All communications are protected by legal professional privilege. Speaking with us does not commit you to taking any further action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Koffels Solicitors & Barristers calling for witnesses from Patrician Brothers College, Liverpool?
We are assisting a survivor who alleges he experienced sexual abuse while a student at Patrician Brothers College, Liverpool around 1970. We are seeking information from others who may have attended or worked at the school during that time and who may be able to assist by sharing relevant information or experiences.
I attended the school around this time but don’t remember anything specific — should I still get in touch?
Yes. Even if you are unsure whether what you recall is relevant, your information may still be helpful. Seemingly minor observations or memories can sometimes assist in corroborating broader patterns of behaviour.
What if I only have partial or unclear memories from that time?
Many survivors experience fragmented or unclear memories due to the passage of time and the traumatic nature of abuse. Even partial information—such as remembering a particular room, a time of day, or a general feeling of unease around certain individuals—can be helpful when combined with other evidence.
What if I had a similar experience but have never spoken about it before?
You can contact us in complete confidence. Speaking with us does not require you to make a formal complaint or take legal action. We understand how difficult it can be to come forward, and support is available.
We can also connect you with independent counselling services through the National Redress Scheme or other support organisations if you would find that helpful.
Will my identity be kept confidential if I contact you?
Yes. Any contact with Koffels Solicitors & Barristers is confidential. Your information will not be shared without your consent, and you are under no obligation to proceed further.
Do I need proof or documents before contacting you?
No. You do not need documents or evidence before getting in touch. You can speak with us confidentially about your experience, and we can explain the next steps, if any.
Can I contact you if I attended a different Patrician Brothers school?
Yes. The Patrician Brothers operated multiple schools across Australia, and some brothers taught at several institutions. If you attended another Patrician Brothers school during the 1970s and have information about Brother Basil Downey, Brother Peter Higgins, or similar patterns of abuse, we encourage you to contact us.
Related information
If you or someone you know needs support, the following services are available:
- Blue Knot Foundation: 1300 657 380 (support for adult survivors of childhood trauma)
- Lifeline: 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)
- 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 (sexual assault and domestic violence counselling)
