Tasmanian Premier announces commission of inquiry into child sex abuse

Premier Peter Gutwein has written to the Governor to request a state-based royal commission into child sex abuse in Tasmanian institutions.

Mr Gutwein said the existing three separate inquiries into the Health Department, Education Department and Ashley Youth Detention Centre would be rolled into a broad-ranging commission of inquiry with Governor Kate Warner’s permission.

Mr Gutwein said the Commission of Inquiry would begin early 2021 and continue for 12 months.

A Commission of Inquiry has similar powers to Supreme Court proceedings, and can compel witnesses and evidence.

It comes after three staff at the Ashley Youth Detention Centre in the state’s…