Victim Awarded Record $8 Million Settlement in Abuse Case

A former student abused by Darrell Ray at Beaumaris Primary School has received a historic $8 million settlement from the Victorian Education Department, marking the largest known payout to a sexual abuse survivor in Australia. The victim's lawyer, Michael Magazanik, emphasized that no Australian court has awarded a greater amount for such cases, highlighting the significant impact of the abuse on the survivor's life. The settlement came just before a Supreme Court hearing, with the Education Department facing numerous claims related to historical abuses at various schools. The survivor, who lived in poverty and struggled with mental health issues, now has the means for proper housing and care. This case is part of broader litigation, as the state has already paid out $34 million to other victims of abuse in similar circumstances. Survivors are urged to seek better compensation avenues than the current state redress system, which has been criticized as inadequate.