“Confession in the Catholic Church is a spiritual encounter with God through the priest.  It is a fundamental part of the freedom of religion, and it is recognised in the Law of Australia and many other countries.  It must remain so here in Australia.  Outside of this all offences against children must be reported to the authorities, and we are absolutely committed to doing so.”

Archbishop Denis J Hart
Archbishop of Melbourne – President of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference

Archbishop Denis Hart