‘We realise that we trusted someone we should have feared’

This is an edited extract of the victim’s statement yesterday.

Like many survivors I have experienced shame, loneliness, depression and struggle. Like many survivors it has taken me years to understand the impact upon my life.

At some point we realise that we trusted someone we should have feared and we fear those genuine relationships that we should trust.

I would like to thank my family near and far for their support of me, and of each other.

I am a witness in a case brought by the state of Victoria. I have put my trust in the police and the criminal justice system.

The process has been stressful and it is not over yet. I need space and time to cope with the ongoing criminal process.

I don’t want to give any interviews … I want to protect my young family and my parents. I don’t want them swept into the spotlight.

I am not a spokesman about child sexual abuse. There are many other survivors and advocates who bravely fill this role. I am just a regular guy working to support and protect my family as best I can.