Australia’s Notorious Pedophile Priest Gerald Ridsdale Dies at 90, Survivors Say Trauma Remains

Melbourne, Australia – One of Australia’s most notorious pedophiles, defrocked Catholic priest Gerald Ridsdale, has died at the age of 90. Still, advocates stress that his passing does not mark the end of the pain endured by his victims.

Ridsdale, convicted of abusing more than 70 children over three decades, died on Tuesday morning in the medical unit of Port Phillip Prison in Melbourne’s west. He had been in custody since 1994 and was serving a maximum sentence of 40 years, with eligibility for parole in 2028.

Alison Geale, chief executive of child protection organisation Bravehearts, emphasized that while his death closes a dark chapter, the lasting impact on survivors remains.

“While some may view his passing as an end, for survivors, the trauma persists,” she said. “Justice isn’t just about an offender’s downfall; it’s about ensuring ongoing support and recognition for those affected.”

A History of Abuse and Cover-Ups

Gerald Ridsdale’s crimes began in 1961, the same year he was ordained, and continued for decades across regional Victoria. He used his position as a priest to gain the trust of families, only to betray them through horrific abuse.

Investigations revealed that church officials, including the late Cardinal George Pell, were aware of allegations against Ridsdale. The Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse found that the Diocese of Ballarat had known of his crimes since the 1960s but continued to relocate him to different parishes to avoid scandal.

In 2016, survivors of Gerald Ridsdale abuse travelled to Rome to hear Pell’s testimony before the commission. Pell, who was later acquitted of separate child sexual abuse charges, had been Ridsdale’s housemate during the 1970s.

Final Years and Declining Health

In his later years, Gerald Ridsdale was in declining health, suffering from chronic pain, muscle wasting, and limited mobility. In August 2024, he pleaded guilty to eight additional sexual assault charges against children. He was too frail during his last court appearance to speak beyond his guilty plea.

Authorities also investigated allegations that Gerald Ridsdale abused children in New South Wales and the United States, where he underwent a church-affiliated sex offender treatment program.

Advocates believe the Catholic Church has to keep addressing the pain resulting from years of systematic abuse even after his death.

“This goes beyond the crimes of one man,” Geale added. “It relates to a whole system that made it possible. Survivors have rights including long-term care, justice, and responsibility.

Ridsdale’s victims never forget his terrible legacy since he is gone and they still seek healing and respect.