Supreme Court of NSW hears disturbing testimony about systemic abuse at Mount Penang Juvenile Justice Centre
A civil hearing in the Supreme Court of New South Wales has brought renewed attention to the long-standing allegations of abuse at the Mount Penang Juvenile Justice Centre. The plaintiff, Mr Stanley, alleges he was sexually assaulted while detained at the facility as a child.
Mount Penang, once a training school for boys, has denied the allegations. However, powerful testimony from Mr Ken Buttrum AM, former head of the NSW Department of Juvenile Justice, has cast serious doubt on the institution’s denials.
“Some people to this day do not believe there was sexual exploitation at Mount Penang and unfortunately, they were terribly wrong.”
— Ken Buttrum AM
Mr Buttrum also revealed that a child protection policy he introduced in 1996 may have failed due to staff illiteracy, highlighting the systemic neglect that allowed abuse to occur.
The hearing continues, with more witnesses expected to give evidence in the coming days.
A Legacy of Abuse: Laurie Maher and Mount Penang
This case follows a wave of civil claims linked to Laurie Maher, the late former Gosford mayor and long-time superintendent of Mount Penang. Maher died in May 2025 while awaiting retrial on charges of buggery and indecent assault involving two boys.
More than 100 civil claims have been filed against the State of NSW, with dozens already settled. Survivors describe Maher as a predator who used his authority to exploit vulnerable boys.
“Laurie Maher was a monster to me. My life was ruined from the age of 16 because of him.”
— Survivor testimony
How Stacks Goudkamp Can Help
At Stacks Goudkamp, we are committed to helping survivors of institutional abuse seek justice, recognition, and healing. Stacks Goudkamp’s abuse lawyers have represented dozens of survivors from Mount Penang and other state-run facilities such as Daruk and Cobham.
- Our Services Include:
- Free, confidential consultations with specialist abuse lawyers
- Comprehensive case assessments to determine eligibility for compensation
- Skilled negotiation and litigation to secure the best possible outcomes
- Support with psychological referrals and survivor advocacy
- No-win, no-fee arrangements in abuse matters
We take a trauma-informed approach to ensure survivors feel safe, heard, and supported throughout the legal process. Whether the abuse occurred in a juvenile justice centre, foster care, religious institution, or school, we have the expertise to guide survivors toward justice.
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or someone you know was abused at Mount Penang or another institution, now is the time to speak up. The legal system is listening, and with the right support, justice is within reach.
Stacks Goudkamp is here to help survivors reclaim their stories and their strength.
