It’s no accident that compensation is specifically mentioned in the terms of reference. It’s also no accident that the terms of reference suggest that the Australian taxpayers will not be paying the bill.
The commissioners are specifically authorised and required to inquire into “what institutions and government should do… (to ensure) justice for victims through the provision of redress by institutions…”
It’s no surprise that the Australian Government has deliberately drafted the words “redress by institutions”. The words “by institutions” send the clear message that Australian taxpayers will not be paying a cent. This message is directed to the perpetrating institutions which the public and legal profession know is a reference to the Catholic Church.
