Overview

• Gerald Ridsdale, who began abusing children shortly after his ordination in 1961, was convicted of nearly 200 offenses and sentenced to 40 years in prison.
• The Catholic Church repeatedly moved Ridsdale between parishes despite knowledge of his crimes, enabling further abuse over three decades.
• A 2017 royal commission confirmed the church hierarchy, including senior figures like the late Cardinal George Pell, was aware of Ridsdale's abuse as early as the 1970s.
• Survivors and advocates emphasize that Ridsdale's death does not erase the profound suffering he caused, urging continued support for those affected.
• Ridsdale's crimes reshaped Australia's legal system, leading to significant inquiries and changes in institutional accountability for child sexual abuse.