SCHOOL SEX ABUSE CASE SETTLED
A LEADING private school has settled a sexual abuse claim by a former student after a lengthy legal battle.
The Southport School confirmed late Friday the historical sexual abuse claim involving a student who attended the prestigioius school more than 20 years ago had recently been settled.
Shine Lawyers abuse law specialist Kimberly Allen told the Bulletin the former student was “relieved to have this matter settled and to have held the school to account for the sexual abuse he suffered” but “no amount of compensation will ever make up’’ for his suffering.
A LEADING private school has settled a sexual abuse claim by a former student after a lengthy legal battle.
The student had attended The Southport School more than 20 years ago.
Shine Lawyers abuse law specialist Kimberly Allen told the Bulletin: “Despite the many hurdles put in front of our client by The Southport School, he is relieved to have this matter settled and to have held the school to account for the sexual abuse he suffered.
“No amount of compensation will ever make up for what our client experienced as a vulnerable schoolboy, but it does bring him a much-needed sense of justice.”
Ms Allen said it was disappointing that lawyers had to litigate the case for TSS to finally agree to a settlement.
“TSS has fought every step of the way, including stalling our civil legal claims, forcing us to litigate and apply for court dates for five of our seven clients abused at their school.”
The Southport School confirmed on Friday that an historical claim was settled recently. Given the desire to protect the privacy of the former student, TSS said it would provide no further details.
TSS principal Andrew Hawkins said: “Cases of this nature can be complex and distressing. We are pleased for the former student that the case has now been settled.
“It is public fact that abuse occurred in the school in the distant past, for which the school has accepted responsibility. Every claim of abuse is taken seriously by TSS and the victim will be supported.
“Reports of abuse can be made to the diocesan office of professional standards on (07) 38352216 or dops@anglicanchurchsq.org.au. They will outline the support available and assist in contacting the police. Alternatively, people may contact the police directly, or the school. All victims are strongly advised to contact the police.”
In November last year, TSS admitted it had paid out $1.5m to 11 sex abuse survivors. It confirmed there were 18 “open claims” – three where legal proceedings had been commenced, 12 were under personal injury law and another three with the National Redress Scheme. TSS at the time advised there was $3.273m available for open claims.
The legal claims follow exclusive Bulletin reports starting in early 2017 after private detective Bill Edgar became a whistleblower.