Brisbane: The Archdiocese of Brisbane has been recognized for its strong and deeply embedded culture of safeguarding, achieving a very high maturity rating under the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (NCSS) following a comprehensive independent audit.
The assessment confirmed that safeguarding practices are firmly established across the archdiocese’s parishes, ministries, and agencies, reflecting a sustained commitment to protecting children and adults at risk and to creating environments grounded in safety, respect, and accountability.
Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL) Chief Executive Officer Ursula Stephens commended the archdiocese for its continued leadership in this critical area. She noted that Brisbane first underwent a safeguarding audit under the NCSS in 2019, when it was found to be compliant with existing regulations and Child Safe principles. The latest review audit expanded its scope to include the care and protection of adults at risk, in line with the revised NCSS framework.
“This audit cycle provided a more comprehensive picture of safeguarding practice across the Archdiocese,” Dr Stephens said, highlighting the broader inclusion of services and ministries in the evaluation.
For the first time, the audit encompassed Centacare services, Catholic Early EdCare services, Brisbane Catholic Education schools, and Archdiocesan Ministries, alongside a representative sample of 15 parishes. Their participation offered a wide-ranging and integrated view of how safeguarding principles are applied across diverse settings within the archdiocese.
The extensive review examined governance structures, policies, procedures, and day-to-day safeguarding practices across all participating entities. ACSL praised the archdiocese for its clear leadership, well-established safeguarding culture, and ongoing investment in continuous improvement.
Brisbane Archbishop Shane Mackinlay welcomed the findings, emphasizing that safeguarding lies at the heart of the Church’s mission. He said the high rating reflects the commitment of clergy, staff, and volunteers who work consistently to ensure that Church environments remain places of trust and dignity.
“This outcome recognizes the dedication of all those who serve across our parishes, ministries, and services,” Archbishop Mackinlay said. “We remain firmly committed to accountability, continual improvement, and to fostering a culture where the dignity and safety of every person are respected and upheld.”
Director of Safeguarding Mark Eustance said the audit results demonstrate the effectiveness of the archdiocese’s robust and integrated safeguarding approach. He noted that including education, care, welfare, and ministry services in the review has provided a deeper and more holistic understanding of both strengths and areas for further development.
“The audit highlights what we are doing well and where we can continue to grow,” Eustance said. “Safeguarding is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility that requires vigilance, transparency, and collaboration at every level.”
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has already begun implementing the recommendations outlined in the audit report and will continue to support parishes, ministries, and services in embedding the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards into everyday practice, reinforcing its commitment to safe and respectful Church communities.