Call for witnesses in alleged historic abuse at Ripponlea Primary School

Slater and Gordon Lawyers is calling for witnesses in relation to allegations of sexual and physical abuse of a child in 1997 and 1998 at Ripponlea Primary School in St Kilda East, Victoria.

The firm has started legal proceedings on behalf of a 37-year-old man who alleges he was physically and sexually abused by two former staff members, a male and a female, while he was a student at the school.

Slater and Gordon Legal Counsel, Abigail Davies, said the alleged abuse has left her client with severe psychological injuries, which he continues to live with to this day.

“Tragically, our client was just eight years old when the alleged abuse first occurred. 

“The claim alleges that our client was sexually abused by a female staff member when he stayed at the School when the school day had ended and all of the other students had left because he went to after school care. 

“Our client also alleges that, on a separate occasion, a male staff member physically abused him in an area where bikes were stored at the school,” Ms Davies said.

The alleged abuse has left our client with serious, ongoing psychological injuries and has impacted his academic performance and career prospects.

Ms Davies said cases like this often rely on others coming forward to help build a fuller picture of the alleged behaviour and the school environment at the time.

“Former students, parents, and staff may remember things they did not have words for back then. These may take the form of comments, patterns of behaviour, or concerns that now make more sense.  

“Even if someone didn’t witness abuse directly, their recollection of how the school operated can help build a fuller picture of what was happening,” she said.

The proceedings allege the State of Victoria, through the Department of Education, breached its duty of care to our client in several areas, such as failing to supervise him properly and failing to have adequate complaint systems in place for instances of abuse.

Slater and Gordon is encouraging anyone with information about Ripponlea Primary School during 1997 and 1998 to contact the firm for a confidential and trauma-informed discussion.

“If you were at the school during that time, had children there, or otherwise have information that may assist, we encourage you to please reach out on 1800 565 892,” Ms Davies said.