Moore MP Shane Love MLA has welcomed the passage of a bill that will remove a time limit on victims of sexual abuse bringing legal claims against the State or other organisations through Parliament.
The bill which passed both houses on Tuesday, will allow thousands of claimants to access fair reparations for acts of child sexual abuse that may have been perpetrated decades ago. Mr Love said the passage of the bill meant victims could begin to make claims as soon as the State Government gives effect to the law.
“Now victims have certainty that they will be able to bring their claims and have a better chance of receiving adequate reparations,” Mr Love said.
“This has been a long journey for many victims of sexual abuse, and while it isn’t yet over we can now say that Western Australia has taken a big step in the right direction.”
Hon Martin Aldridge, The Nationals WA Attorney-General spokesperson, commended the passage of the bill and those who provided valuable input.
“I want to recognise the contribution of Dr Graham Jacobs, former Member for Eyre, who initially proposed a similar reform through a private member’s bill in 2015,” he said.
“Although this is a substantially different bill, Dr Jacobs’ effort in working with victims and bringing a bill to the Parliament should be recognised.”
Mr Aldridge called on the State Government to quickly proclaim the bill to enact it into law.
“It is now the prerogative of the State Government to enact this bill as quickly as possible,” he said.
“I look forward to this happening and allowing victims to begin the next chapter of their journey to reparation.”
