1300 679 222
Child Sexual Abuse
Child Sexual Abuse Compensation
Unfortunately, suffering sexual abuse or assault is common everywhere. This crime typically results in lifelong trauma to children, adult men and women, teenagers, and older people. A stranger, a spouse, a parent, a boyfriend or a girlfriend can commit sexual assault.
The Royal Commission heard horrendous stories of child maltreatment in the Catholic Church, the Anglican Church and many other institutions in Australia. However, institutions where childhood sexual assault can occur include any kind of religious or government school, university, church, or anywhere adults, have a duty of care to protect children.
Sexual abuse at boys’ homes was and still is far too common, as is sexual abuse at girls’ homes, and this can include sexual violence, physical abuse, using drug abuse and grooming. Under-reporting is common. Sexual abuse can include genital contact,
At IACHA, we are mainly concerned with helping those who experienced sexual assault and child abuse perpetrated on boys and girls in institutions to gain their rightful child sexual abuse compensation.
The Signs of Sexual Abuse in Children
The signs of sexual abuse in young boys and female victims are often different in every child but can include suicide attempts, self-mutilation, losing self-confidence, and being suddenly quieter or more distant than usual. They may cry for no apparent reason and start wetting their bed or pants. Children may be more aggressive, begin to have nightmares or become clingy.
Sexually abused girls and boys may lose interest in playing, avoid some people and places, and their school grades may suffer. Physical signs of sexual abuse in boys and girls are genital area swelling, urinary tract infections, and discharges from the vagina or penis, indicating a sexually transmitted disease. There may also be bruising on the softer parts of the body.
As adults, female and male survivors of child sexual assault may experience adverse outcomes such as domestic violence, attempted suicide, and psychiatric disorders. Child victims may grow up with sexual identity problems and suffer substance abuse, family violence, sexual victimisation and post-traumatic stress disorder.
These are all signs of abusive sexual experiences as a child, and these adult survivors need mental health support.
Child Sexual Abuse Civil Compensation Claims Differ From the Redress Scheme
As a sexual abuse survivor, you can make your claim for childhood institutional abuse compensation through the civil courts with lawyers like ours at IACHA. Or we can help you navigate the process through the National Redress Scheme. There are significant differences between a civil claim and the National Redress Scheme.
Some benefits of choosing a civil claim with a lawyer over the Redress Scheme are as follows:
- Civil claims may be faster.
- There are no limits to the amount of sexual abuse compensation.
- Due to the recommendations of the Royal Commission, there are no longer time limits on claiming child sexual abuse compensation in the civil courts.
- Most law firms acting for child sexual abuse victims offer a no-win-no-fee policy.
- Part or all of your legal fees may be recoverable.
- Caps to your legal costs may apply.
Keep in mind civil claims can require more compelling evidence about the abuse. You may also need to deal directly with the institution involved and prove the institution was legally responsible for your protection.
The National Redress Scheme and Child Sexual Abuse Compensation
After the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse, compensation is now being awarded to people through the National Redress Scheme, which was formed in response to the Commission’s findings. The scheme facilitates the process of child sexual abuse compensation for victims. The scheme began on July 1, 2018, and ends in 2028. Under the scheme, the amount of compensation is capped at $150,000, and the usual sum granted is $80,000 for compensation for child sexual abuse.
Not all institutions have joined the scheme, but our lawyers at IACHA can tell you if they are participants. We can help you with a civil claim for child sexual abuse compensation if they haven't joined. And should the institution be named here, we can help you navigate the Redress Scheme if that is your choice.
IACHA Child Sexual Abuse Compensation, Legal Support and Services
Claiming and successfully winning the child sexual abuse compensation you have a right to expect for the abuse you suffered as an innocent child can be challenging. Apart from the emotionally charged process, you may feel alone, fearful, and confused about where to go for help to put things right. This is why it’s wise to access sexual abuse compensation lawyers who know how to navigate the system and support you.
At IACHA, our legal team will help you choose the best option. We guide you at each stage, from filing your claim to the day you receive your compensation for institutional abuse. Our experienced legal team is ready to fight for your rights to make sure you get the justice that is rightfully yours via a lump sum compensation payment. Contact us today so we can help.
It's never too late.
Promote truth. Victims of abuse. Compensation is your right.