MEDIA STATEMENT
Catholic Diocese of Port Pirie affirms commitment to safeguarding following ACSL audit.
The Catholic Diocese of Port Pirie has welcomed the findings of a safeguarding audit conducted by Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL), which assessed the Diocese’s implementation of the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (NCSS).
The audit examined the Diocese’s safeguarding policies, procedures, practices and culture against the national framework designed to promote the safety and wellbeing of children and adults at risk across Catholic entities in Australia.
The assessment found that the Diocese has substantially implemented the indicators of the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards and acknowledged the Diocese’s ongoing commitment to strengthening safeguarding practices across its ministries, parishes, schools and agencies.
Bishop Karol Kulczycki SDS welcomed the report and expressed gratitude for the work undertaken throughout the Diocese to foster a culture of safety, accountability and care.
Safeguarding is not simply a compliance requirement; it is a Gospel responsibility that calls us to uphold the dignity and wellbeing of every person entrusted to our care,” Bishop Karol
“The findings of this audit provide encouragement that we are on the right path. While we recognise that safeguarding requires constant vigilance and ongoing improvement, we are confident that the Diocese has established strong foundations and remains committed to continuously strengthening our safeguarding culture.”
The audit highlighted the Diocese’s efforts to embed safeguarding principles within leadership, governance, education and pastoral practice, while also identifying opportunities for further development and continuous improvement.
Bishop Karol said the Diocese would carefully consider the recommendations arising from the audit and continue working collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers and parish communities to ensure best practice safeguarding measures remain in place.
Every child, young person and adult at risk deserves to feel safe, respected and valued within the life of the Church. We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating environments where people can participate with confidence and trust,” he said.
The Diocese acknowledges the support and guidance provided by Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd throughout the audit process and views the review as an important opportunity to reflect, learn and grow.
The audit report is available through the Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd website.