Senator Hinch supports proposed changes to confession laws

Senator Derryn Hinch says he supports an election promise by the Victorian Government which would compel priests and religious leaders to report child abuse even when it is disclosed during confession, or face criminal charges.

Under current laws, priests and religious leaders are exempt from mandatory reporting laws which apply to teachers, principals, doctors, nurses and police officers.

On Friday the government announced it would amend the laws if re-elected.

Neil Mitchell described it as a huge step, and Senator Hinch said he agreed with it.

“It is a huge step, but a doctor can’t hide behind the Hippocratic oath,” he said.

“I think law should take precedence over canon law, over religious law.

“We had a case where paedophile priests were confessing to each other, and going out and doing it again.”

Click PLAY to hear the full segment with Senator Derryn Hinch