Authorities are searching for victims and witnesses linked to alleged historical child abuse at a primary school in the Illawarra region, marking the third local educational institution to become part of a widening legal probe.
Appeal for Information from School Community
The alleged offences are said to have occurred at Barrack Heights Public School over a period spanning from approximately 1998 to 2005. National law firm Shine Lawyers has launched a public appeal, urging former students and staff members from that era to make contact.
Shine Lawyers practice manager, Natalee Davis, stated the call was made in hopes of finding community members who could help corroborate their client's experiences. "Information from witnesses can help us to either confirm what we already know or reveal information we are missing," Ms Davis explained.
She emphasised that even seemingly minor recollections could be crucial. "This might be about specific things such as interactions and observations with a particular person that 'felt off' or were inappropriate at the time," Ms Davis said. Details about classroom layouts, clothing, or nicknames could also help piece the puzzle together.
A Pattern of Probes Across the Region
This investigation into Barrack Heights Public School represents the third Illawarra school where Shine Lawyers is pursuing claims of alleged historical child abuse. The firm initiated legal proceedings concerning alleged abuse at Warrawong High School in the 1980s in November 2025.
Prior to that, in June 2025, the firm began pursuing claims related to alleged abuse at Cringila Public School during the 1990s. Ms Davis has previously highlighted the critical role witnesses play in such institutional cases, noting that legal claims often cannot advance without supporting evidence from people who were present.
Confidentiality and Next Steps for Witnesses
Ms Davis sought to reassure potential informants, stating that providing information does not create an obligation to proceed further. "If someone chooses to contact us, they'll be met with respect, compassion and confidentiality," she affirmed.
The lawyer encouraged anyone with information, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, to get in touch. "Information that might seem insignificant can make a real difference to this case, and to our client," Ms Davis said. In past public appeals, dozens of people have come forward, often providing information that helps resolve cases for survivors.
A spokesperson for the NSW Education Department said they were unable to provide detailed commentary due to the ongoing legal matter. The spokesperson advised anyone with information about historical abuse allegations to contact the department and report them to police, reiterating that the department holds its employees to the highest standards and will take necessary action.
Individuals with information related to Barrack Heights Public School between 1998 and 2005 are urged to contact Chloe Lindquist from Shine Lawyers on 4209 3809 or at clindquist@shine.com.au.
