The audit was conducted by Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd and for the first time included Centacare services, Catholic Early EdCare services, Brisbane Catholic Education schools and Archdiocesan Ministries as well as a sample of 15 parishes.
Brisbane Archbishop Shane Mackinlay welcomed the findings, noting that safeguarding was fundamental to the Church’s mission.
“This result reflects the dedication of our clergy, staff, and volunteers who work each day to ensure our parishes, ministries, and services are places of safety, respect and trust,” Archbishop Mackinlay said.
“We remain committed to ongoing improvement and accountability and to fostering a culture where the dignity of every person is upheld.”
Safeguarding director Mark Eustance said the result demonstrated the effectiveness of the archdiocese’s robust and integrated approach to safeguarding.
“The inclusion of our education, care, welfare and ministry services in this audit has given us a deeper and more holistic understanding of our safeguarding strengths,” Mr Eustance said.
“The audit highlights both what we are doing well and where we can continue to improve.
“Safeguarding is an ongoing effort.
“It requires vigilance, transparency, and collaboration.”
Brisbane archdiocese has already commenced work on implementing the recommendations in the report and will continue supporting all parishes and ministries to embed the NCSS in daily practice.
The extensive audit evaluated governance, policies, procedures and safeguarding practices across these diverse service areas.
ACSL commended the archdiocese for its clear leadership, well-established safeguarding culture and ongoing investment in continuous improvement.
The full ACSL audit report is publicly available on ACSL’s website, reflecting the Archdiocese’s commitment to openness and accountability.