The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse will be holding private sessions in Darwin next week.
Royal Commission CEO Philip Reed said all people affected by child sexual abuse while in the care of an Australian institution have the opportunity to tell the Royal Commission of their experiences in a private session.
"Over the course of the week around 15 survivors of child sexual abuse in the Northern Territory will have the opportunity to tell the Royal Commission of their experiences, in a private session with a Commissioner."
"The information provided in private sessions will help the Royal Commission better understand how child sexual abuse in institutions can be prevented."
"Royal Commission officers have visited the Northern Territory on a number of occasions to meet local service providers, share information about the Royal Commission and conduct private sessions."
"Private sessions are conducted in a culturally sensitive way, with recognition of the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have experienced child sexual abuse. Aboriginal counsellors and community engagement staff are available to assist in this process. Interpreter services are also available if required."
"While these private sessions have already been allocated, anyone who wants to have a private session can still register their interest by phoning 1800 099 340," he said.
To protect the privacy of those involved, the location of private sessions is confidential.
If you were sexually abused as a child while in the care of an Australian institution, you can share your story to the Royal Commission by phoning 1800 099 340 or emailing contact@childabuseroyalcommission.gov.au.
