Following a recent High Court ruling that the Catholic Church is not vicariously liable for the actions of a priest who allegedly sexually abused a child in the 1970s, there have been growing calls for legal reform. The court determined that a priest is not considered an employee of the Church, meaning the institution is not required to compensate the victim for the priest’s actions.

This ruling has sparked outrage among lawyers, victims’ advocates, and legal experts, who argue that it undermines justice for survivors of abuse. They have criticized the decision for shielding institutions from responsibility for the actions of their representatives, particularly in cases involving child abuse.

Victims’ advocates have emphasized that the Church, as an organization, should be held accountable for the conduct of its clergy, especially when such actions have caused long-term harm to vulnerable individuals. The ruling has led to calls for reform across all states and territories, with many demanding changes to the law to ensure institutions can be held liable for abuse committed by their representatives.

Lawyers and advocacy groups have expressed their intent to push for legislative changes that would clarify and expand the definition of institutional liability, making it easier for victims to seek compensation and justice. The case has reignited ongoing debates over how the legal system can better support survivors of institutional abuse and hold organizations accountable for the actions of those within their ranks.

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