Reference: 2008-009 - Broome Diocese Child Protection Response Project

Researchers: Vickie Hovane (Principle Researcher, Contracted to Notre Dame University Australia Broome), Joe Edgar (Research/ Community Facilitator, Nulungu Centre for Indigenous Studies, Notre Dame University Australia Broome), Steve Kinnane (Acting Assoc. Dean Arts and Sciences, Nulungu Centre for Indigenous Studies, Notre Dame University Australia Broome)

Funding: Caritas Australia

Project summary: The aim of the research project is to consult with Catholic Religious Congregations, Church personnel and school staffs in the Kimberley which have been associated with the Broome Diocese over a period of time on the issue of Child Protection. The project will seek feedback from these groups on the preventative, educative or healing responses, or lack thereof, currently in operation through the Diocese as a means of ensuring child protection for children engaged by these institutions. The research will be overseen by a reference group of Indigenous and non-Indigenous workers associated with the Broome Diocese. The results of the research will be utilised to guide the Broome Diocese in ensuring adequate and effective responses are actioned to prevent child abuse in any institutions or communities within the Diocese through educative, healing and program support.

Progress: Completed in 2009