The laws, which are now being tabled, are set to abolish the limitation periods in relation to civil claims for damages.

This would be available for victims of sexual and physical abuse. 

Attorney-General Vanessa Goodwin said if the laws were approved, it would be intended that the abolishment of the limitation period will apply retrospectively.

“The impact of child sexual abuse is significant and long lasting, and the government is acting to ensure victims do not have unnecessary roadblocks placed in their way when seeking justice,” Dr Goodwin said. 

“Serious sex offences against children will not be tolerated under the Hodgman Liberal government, and we look forward to this legislation being tabled in 2017.” 

Blue Knot Foundation president Cathy Kezelman welcomed the move. 

“Recognition of survivors of physical abuse, as well as sexual abuse is significant as the impact of many abuses and traumas is such that people cannot come forward for many years to talk about their experience, let alone undertake civil proceedings,” Dr Kezelman said. 

“The Royal Commission has shown us the impact of child sexual abuse on its victims, the harm done and how hard it has been for so many survivors of institutional child sexual abuse to find trauma-informed and culturally sensitive support and justice.”