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AAP
AAP
National
Rachael Ward

Child sex abuse inquiry expanded to 24 schools

Kathleen Foley is helming an inquiry into historical child sex abuse in Victorian government schools (James Ross/AAP PHOTOS)

An inquiry into historical child sex abuse in Victorian government schools has been expanded.

Another six primary schools have been added to the investigation, bringing the total number of schools to 24.

An independent board of inquiry is examining abuse at Beaumaris Primary School in Melbourne's southeast in the 1960s and 1970s and at other government schools in later decades.

On Wednesday, it was revealed Bundalong South, Chelsea Heights, Cowes, Drouin South, Kunyung and Warragul primary schools had been added to the investigation.

The schools have a link with multiple alleged perpetrators and anyone with relevant information or experiences has been urged to come forward.

The inquiry previously identified former Beaumaris teacher Gary Arthur Mitchell as one of the alleged perpetrators.

Mitchell was employed as a teacher, deputy principal and principal at several schools from 1964 until the late 1990s and has previously been sentenced over child sexual abuse matters.

The deadline for submissions from survivors has been extended to October 31, with both private or public sessions available.

Inquiry chair Kathleen Foley SC said it was vital everyone had a chance to share their experiences and she would work with individuals to make sure they felt supported and safe.

"I thank every person who has come forward to make a submission or participate in a private session," Ms Foley said.

"I am humbled by your strength, courage, and openness to contribute to our work." 

In addition to Beaumaris, other schools included in the inquiry are Mount View, Moorabbin, Dandenong North, Dandenong West, Beaconsfield Upper, Mirboo, Emerald, Cranbourne, Bunyip, Tarwin, Hampton, Aspendale, Belvedere, Ormond East, Tarraville, Moorabbin West and Warragul Technical School.

The government has promised an apology to abused former Beaumaris students and set aside $4.5 million to support victim-survivors and run the inquiry.

The final report is due to be handed to government at the end of February 2024.

Lifeline 13 11 14

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for people aged 5 to 25)

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