Characteristics and Experiences of Disclosure of Child Sexual Abuse in Religious Organisations: Current Research and Findings from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study.

Disclosure of child sexual abuse (CSA) is a pivotal yet complex process that can lead to protection and healing if well supported, or further harm if met with disbelief or institutional betrayal. Disclosing CSA experienced in religious organisations faces additional challenges due to spiritual and institutional power, the moral authority of clergy, theological taboos surrounding sexuality, and organisational cultures that have historically prioritised reputation over accountability. Drawing on global literature, findings from the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, and new analyses from the Australian Child Maltreatment Study (ACMS), this article examines the characteristics of disclosure among those who experienced CSA by a leader or other adult in a religious organisation. The Royal Commission found that most did not disclose their abuse at the time, often due to fear and shame, and disclosures were frequently met with disbelief, minimisation, or inaction. Our findings from the ACMS, a nationally representative study of 8503 Australians, revealed that approximately 60% of victim/survivors of CSA in religious organisations disclosed the abuse, with men less likely to disclose than women. Most disclosures occurred before age 18, though some were delayed for decades. These findings suggest earlier disclosure across generations but highlight persisting barriers shaped by gendered norms, theological narratives of obedience and sin, and entrenched institutional power. In Australia, despite significant reforms, there is an enduring need for trauma-informed safeguarding approaches that address the sexual, spiritual, and psychological harm, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and create environments that enable safe and supported disclosure.