Lawyers are urging witnesses to alleged historical child sexual abuse at Patrician Brothers College, now known as Delany College, in Granville to come forward with any information that may assist survivors of the alleged abuse.
Slater and Gordon Lawyer in Abuse Law Karen Torres said the firm is investigating the alleged sexual abuse of children by “Brothers” at the college in the 1970’s.
“We currently hold instructions from a client who say they suffered physical and sexual abuse at the hands of several Brothers, one who is known as convicted rapist Thomas Grealey or referred to by some as Brother (Br) Augustine,” she said.
“This abuse has had a devastating impact on his life, which is why we’re seeking witnesses and any other victims to come forward to help us get him the justice, closure and compensation he deserves.
“Our client alleges that during almost every lesson, Br Augustine would physically abuse him and several of his fellow classmates.
“In addition to this trauma our client also suffered horrific sexual abuse from Br Augustine on several occasions in various locations within the College.
“We believe that as one of the Brothers our client has been abused by is a known convicted rapist, there may be others who have suffered.”
Patrician Brothers’ High School was established in 1942. The school was later renamed Delany College after the Patrician Brothers’ founder, Bishop Daniel Delany.
Under NSW law, there is no longer a time limit on when child sex abuse compensation claims can be made, meaning victims can pursue a claim for damages regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred.
Slater and Gordon also said that legislation passed in 2021 allows unfair settlements previously reached with churches and other institutions, to be set aside by the court. Gag orders, which survivors were previously forced to sign, preventing them from speaking publicly about what they endured can now also be lifted.
“We believe there could be potential witnesses living in New South Wales or interstate,” Torres added.
“If you suffered abuse by a teacher or a Br Augustine or any others, or if you are aware of the abuse of other children, please do not hesitate to reach out to Slater and Gordon Lawyers.”
Torres said any information received would be treated confidentially.
Witnesses are urged to call Slater and Gordon on 1800 565 892.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.