excuse my typo. I meant to say - our justice system
does need reforming. Especially in sexual abuse cases.

Banjo,

A conviction for rape is not like getting a traffic fine, the sentences are very long and reputation damage is forever. The function of a trial is to determine firstly whether the crime for which someone has been charged actually was committed.

Evidence and witnesses are presented and queried by both the prosecution and defence. If a "victim" does not report the crime, then there can be no trial. If there is sufficient evidence, then a conviction is relatively easy.

What you and the article you linked to are advocating is that for victims who report the rape late and for which there is no evidence other than the victim's statement, then special kangaroo courts will take her testimony as fact and disallow cross-examination.

That is execrable and close to the Chinese system that assumes guilt when you walk into court

No surprise to see who felt the need to defend the slander.

The rape of a child is a violent act.
We all need to protect children from these
heinous acts and not
excuse or defend the abusers.
Defending abusers is the ultimate betrayal.

Nobody is defending child abusers. You have been a non-stop abuser and slanderer of Cardinal Pell ever since he was railroaded. You are the leading 'awful person' on this matter, here on OLO. Your tedious repetition of the slanderous comments of other awful people in the media and the political class does not excuse your individual behaviour. You are responsible for your own behaviour here - and it is truly awful.

I've got a bitter enemy
His heart to hate he gave
I'm sure that he'd like to see me die
So he could dance upon my grave

But then such is a quirk of fate
Because the poison in his heart
May just hasten his miserable life
And force him to depart

So if your heart is full of hate
Folks, be aware
You could end up lying all alone
With nobody who cares

If you let hate rule your life
It won't be a pleasant doom
Providing a feast for tiny creatures
Embedded in your tomb

So try to live a hate-free life
The best things in life are free
Try to give and not just take
Let that be your ethical legacy.