Archbishop Tony affirms strong commitment to safeguarding
By Catherine Sheehan
Archbishop Tony Ireland has affirmed his commitment to ensuring all Catholic communities and workplaces within the Archdiocese of Hobart are safe places for children and vulnerable people.
The Archbishop released his Safeguarding Commitment Statement on 19 October, pledging to continue the on-going implementation of safeguarding measures across the Archdiocese, a process that began in 2017 when the Safe Communities office was first established by Archbishop Julian Porteous.
In the lead up to the launch of his statement, Archbishop Tony said safeguarding was “a whole of Archdiocese commitment”.
“As Archbishop, I want to see all our people championing and leading in this area,” he said.
“Safeguarding has to be in our DNA (Diocesan Normal Awareness); it is not something added on or extra. Safeguarding has to be embedded in our systems and practices, it is to be part of the air we breathe and the culture we promote.
“Safeguarding is something we do as a response to the Lord’s call to love one another as he has loved us. His love never exploits or endangers. His love heals and empowers.”
Director of Professional Standards, Kathy Tarte, said the Archbishop’s Commitment Statement had “reaffirmed for the Church and its entities on our enduring role to Safeguard children, young people and adults at risk”.
“This is important as it informs everyone that we are deeply committed to keeping those in our care safe and that we have zero tolerance for any form of abuse,” she added.
“We’ve made strong progress on our safeguarding journey but there is always more that we can continuously improve.
“It is my hope that we continue to build on the progress that has already made and recognise that everyone has a role to play in keeping children, young people and adults at risk safe.”
Australian Catholic Safeguarding Limited (ACSL) carried out an audit on six of the Archdiocese’s parishes from 29 September to 2 October. The auditors also met with the Archdiocese’s Heads of Agencies to discuss a possible future audit.
“We are looking forward to receiving our report from ACSL on the recent audit undertaken and this will guide and inform the development of a strategic plan for the Archdiocese,” Kathy said.
“Safeguarding is shared responsibility and one that enables strong and safe communities. Everyone has a role to play, and the Safe Communities team is here to help, guide and support the Church and its entities. Please reach out to the team with any queries or suggestions.
“If anyone sees something that doesn’t sit right with them, we encourage you to speak up, report your concern and do so with the knowledge that you will be heard.”
To view the Archbishop’s Safeguarding Commitment Statement, visit: https://hobart.catholic.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Commitment-Statement-5.pdf