National Redress Scheme
Sadly, The Hutchins School acknowledges incidents of historical sexual abuse having occurred at our school. The Hutchins School Board apologises sincerely and wholeheartedly to any and all Hutchins Old Boys who have been sexually abused. Child sexual abuse is an abhorrent crime.
The National Redress Scheme (‘the Scheme’) was created by the Australian Government in response to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. The Scheme commenced on 1 July 2018 and provides acknowledgement and support to people who experienced institutional child sexual abuse.
The Scheme can provide:
- access to counselling;
- a payment (ranging from less than $10,000 through to $150,000 depending on the circumstances); and
- a direct personal response from the institution (e.g. an apology) for people who want it.
The Hutchins School joined the Scheme via the Anglican Representative (National Redress Scheme) Limited (ARNRSL) and the Minister for Families and Social Services made a declaration formalising the inclusion of Hutchins in the Scheme via ARNRSL, with effect from 29 March 2019.
This means that people who experienced abuse while in the care of Hutchins can apply to the Scheme for redress. People can apply now using an online or paper form. Free and confidential Redress Support Services are available throughout the process to help explain the Scheme and application process. Anyone seeking further information can visit www.nationalredress.gov.au or call the National Redress Scheme line on 1800 737 377.
Please contact the Principal, Dr Rob McEwan at principal@hutchins.tas.edu.au if you would like to discuss anything relating to these matters.