Launceston residents are invited to learn more about the work of the Royal Commission at a community information forum in Launceston on Wednesday 15 April.

Commissioner Bob Atkinson will provide an overview of the work of the Royal Commission and answer questions from the community.

Royal Commission CEO Philip Reed said the community forum was open to any members of the public who have an interest in the Royal Commission.

“We particularly encourage people affected by child sexual abuse while in the care of an institution to attend,” Mr Reed said.

“You will not be required to discuss your personal story at the community forum. It is a chance to find out more about the work of the Royal Commission – why it was established, how it works and some of the positive changes that have occurred as a result of its work.

“You can also find out how you can be involved,” he said.

In addition to the community forum, private sessions will also be held in the region.

“Over the course of this week, survivors of child sexual abuse living in Launceston will have the opportunity to tell the Royal Commission of their experiences in a private session with a Commissioner.

“The Royal Commission has already held more than 3,200 private sessions across Australia.

“Private sessions are critical to the Commission’s work, as they allow Commissioners to hear firsthand of the impact of abuse on people and how the response of an institution affects survivors over their lifetime,” Mr Reed said.

“The information provided in private sessions is helping the Royal Commission better understand how child sexual abuse in institutions can be prevented.”

Forum details

Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse

Lismore Community Forum

• Date: Wednesday 15 April
• Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm
• Venue: The Tramsheds Function Centre – 4 Invermay Rd, Inveresk Precinct, Tasmania. Parking is available at the Inveresk car park. Entry via Invermay Rd and Lindsay St intersection

Children under the age of 16 who would like to attend the community forum should be accompanied by an adult.

For more information about the forum or if you would like to confirm your attendance, please contact contact@childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au or call (02) 8284 2412

Please note: For privacy reasons, the community forum is closed to media.