An Exploration of Australian Jewish peak body leadership responses to Institutional Child Sexual Abuse

This doctoral study investigates Australian Jewish peak body leadership and governance responses to Institutional Child Sexual Abuse, a growing phenomenon within Jewish communities globally. Using a multi-method qualitative design, it draws on interviews with Jewish community leaders, alongside secondary data from survivors and secondary victims. Findings reveal substantial disparities between leadership and survivor perspectives, with evidence of governance deficits, inadequate prioritisation of child safety, and reputational concerns overriding survivor care. The study concludes that leadership education, governance reform, and stronger engagement with survivors are essential to improving prevention, accountability, and support, with implications for Jewish and culturally similar communities internationally.