"Failure to Disclose" offence

An offence for failure to disclose child sexual abuse came into force on 27 October 2014. This offence has been introduced as part of the Crimes Amendment (Protection of Children) Act 2014, in response to a recommendation from the report of the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into the Handling of Child Abuse by Religious and Other Non-Government Organisations, Betrayal of Trust.

The new offence requires that any adult (aged 18 and over) who holds a reasonable belief that a sexual offence has been committed in Victoria by an adult against a child (aged under 16) disclose that information to police (unless they have a reasonable excuse).

The Fact sheet is intended to clarify reporting obligations for Department of Human Services (DHS) staff and funded organisations. It should be read together with the general information fact sheet on the new ‘failure to disclose’ offence also available on the Department of Justice website.

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Sector Highlights

The Private Rooming House Operators Act

Message from CHP - Update 21 April 2017

The new Rooming House Operators Act comes into effect on 26 April, requiring all existing operators to be licensed by 24 August.

Those applying for a rooming house license must now satisfy a ‘fit and proper test’, including a criminal history check, a financial history check, and checks against various offences. Operators who opt to close their rooming house rather than apply for a license have been advised to issue an appropriate notice to vacate by 26 April.