The Christian Brothers, a Catholic religious order, sold millions of dollars worth of real estate but failed to pay survivors of child sexual abuse, according to survivors and their advocates. The order sold properties including a former school and a retreat centre, but the funds have not been directed to compensate victims.
Properties Sold, Survivors Left Waiting
The order sold the former St Patrick's College in Strathfield, Sydney, for $30 million in 2022, and a retreat centre in Mittagong, New South Wales, for $6 million in 2023. However, survivors say they have received no compensation from these sales. The Christian Brothers had previously agreed to contribute to a compensation scheme for victims of abuse in Catholic institutions, but advocates claim the order has not honoured its commitments.
Advocates Demand Accountability
Survivor advocate David Hill said: "The Christian Brothers have sold off significant assets, yet they continue to delay and deny justice to survivors. It's a betrayal of trust." According to the group Survivors of Institutional Abuse, the order owes millions in unpaid compensation to dozens of survivors.
Church Response and Legal Obligations
The Christian Brothers issued a statement saying they are committed to supporting survivors and have made payments through the National Redress Scheme. However, advocates argue that the order's contributions fall short of what is needed. The Catholic Church in Australia has faced ongoing criticism over its handling of abuse claims and compensation.
Impact on Survivors
Survivors say the lack of compensation has caused further trauma. One survivor, who asked not to be named, said: "We were promised justice, but instead we get excuses. The church needs to sell all its assets if that's what it takes to make things right." The issue has reignited calls for the church to be transparent about its finances and to prioritize victim compensation.
