On 24 July 2024, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Historical Abuse in State Care and in the Care of Faith-based Institutions released its long-awaited report. Established in 2018, the Commission investigated allegations of abuse involving children, young people, and adults in care from 1950 to 1999, hearing testimonies from over 3,000 survivors.

The final report, Whanaketia – Through Pain and Trauma, From Darkness to Light. Whakairihia ki te tihi o Maungārongo, revealed that between 113,000 and 253,000 individuals experienced abuse and neglect in these institutions. It contains 138 recommendations organised into three key themes.

The 2013 Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse exposed systemic failures that allowed abuse across institutions like religious organisations, schools, orphanages, and sports clubs. Seven years after the final report in 2017, we reflect on the significant improvements made and Kooyoora’s evolving role in addressing the Commission’s findings and recommendations.