The Transformation of the Church State Relationship.

The article examines the transformation of the church-state relationship in Australia, focusing on the ethical and legal obligations of religious organizations in response to child sexual abuse. It highlights three key events: the 2012 Victorian Parliamentary inquiry and Betrayal of Trust Report, the Commonwealth Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (2012–2017), and subsequent legal reforms that increased state oversight of religious institutions. Using the Parable of the Good Samaritan as a framework, the article contrasts the ethical call to love and care for marginalized victims with the historical failure of some faith-based organizations to adequately respond to abuse survivors. The secular inquiries are portrayed as "outsiders" who have compelled churches to adopt higher ethical standards and create child-safe environments, marking a significant shift in church autonomy and accountability.