An abuse survivor has described feeling 'stabbed in the back' after the Christian Brothers religious order used an unprecedented legal tactic to abort his trial, claiming it was about to go broke. The survivor, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said the denial of a trial continues what he called 'fifty years of delayed death'.
Legal Tactic Halts Trial
The Christian Brothers, a Catholic religious order that ran many institutions where abuse occurred, argued in court that proceeding with the trial would bankrupt the order. The court accepted this argument, effectively ending the survivor's pursuit of justice through a civil trial. The survivor expressed profound betrayal, stating the decision felt like being stabbed with a 'sharp, long, bladed knife to the back'.
Broader Implications for Abuse Survivors
This case highlights the ongoing struggles survivors face in seeking accountability from religious institutions. Legal experts note that the tactic, while rare, could set a precedent allowing other organisations to avoid trial by citing financial distress. The survivor's legal team is exploring alternative avenues for redress, but the emotional toll is evident.
Essential Poll Shows One Nation Slipping
Meanwhile, the latest Essential poll reveals that Australian voters have rejected key policies of Pauline Hanson's One Nation party. Support for the party has slipped slightly, with more than half of respondents indicating they would either vote for her party or consider doing so. The poll also shows declining approval for One Nation's stance on immigration and climate change.
Property Market Downturn
House prices are now falling in four Australian capital cities, with Sydney values dropping by $48,000 this year. The downturn is attributed to rising interest rates and reduced buyer demand, according to property analysts.
International News
In the US, the Supreme Court has defied Donald Trump and upheld the constitutional guarantee that nearly all people born on US soil are American citizens. US-Iran talks over unfreezing at least $6 billion in Iranian assets will recommence in Doha, while a thinktank report says China has emerged as the sole winner in Asia from the crisis.
World Cup and Sports Updates
In sport, Australia's women's cricket team cruised into the T20 World Cup final by beating the West Indies by eight wickets. Alex de Minaur had a winning start at Wimbledon, while Serena Williams faced a tough Australian opponent, Maya Joint, in her return to the championship. Erling Haaland scored the winner as Norway beat Côte d'Ivoire 2-1 in the World Cup.
Free Electricity Scheme Launches
From today, households in NSW, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria can get free electricity for three hours in the middle of the day as part of a new scheme to encourage use of excess solar generation. The initiative aims to reduce grid strain and lower household bills.
