Politicians welcome PM's calling of royal commission

POLITICIANS from all sides have welcomed Julia Gillard's calling of a royal commission into child sex abuse.

POLITICIANS from all sides have welcomed Julia Gillard's calling of a royal commission into child sex abuse, saying it will bring hope and justice to long-suffering victims.

The Greens, Labor backbenchers and independents who called for a national inquiry said it was the right decision for the government to make, and some commended the Prime Minister for leadership on the issue.

Greens leader Christine Milne hoped the royal commission would help ensure abuse would not recur.

"I hope this can bring some peace and justice to shattered lives, lift the shadow off all those good people in the church striving to do good for others, and make sure nothing like this ever happens again," Senator Milne said.

Independent MP Tony Windsor, who urged Ms Gillard earlier in the day to take action as soon as possible, said the move would be welcomed by the community and victims. "The Prime Minister has shown compassion for the victims of this heinous action of some people in very trusted positions in our community," he said.

Labor Senator Doug Cameron, one of the first government backbenchers to call for a royal commission, last night said he was happy with the announcement.

Tony Abbott issued a statement earlier in the day, saying he would welcome a national inquiry.

Julia Gillard promised to speak with premiers and chief ministers about how the royal commission should relate to any current inquiries into similar matters proposed or under way in their jurisdictions.

Victoria said it would push ahead with the nation's first inquiry into sex abuse by religious organisations, vowing to hand over reports and documents to the royal commission.

Premier Ted Baillieu backed the royal commission, arguing the Victorian parliament's inquiry would provide crucial information to any federal response.

NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell welcomed the announcement, saying the "heinous offences don't stop at state boundaries".

The SA Labor government urged Ms Gillard to adopt the model used for the state's Mullighan inquiry into the abuse of children in state care.

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