In 2015, Senator Bill Heffernan tabled a document in the Australian Senate - commonly referred to as the “police list” - alleging that 28 high-profile individuals were named in connection to a suspected pedophile ring. The names, according to Heffernan, were obtained via a Joint Police Taskforce and related to allegations of institutional child sexual abuse.

Among those reportedly included were judges, senior lawyers, business figures, and a former prime minister. Despite the seriousness of these allegations and their potential implications for public safety and institutional accountability, no public investigation, inquiry, or update has ever been issued by any government body that the Australian public has been made aware of.

The former Attorney-General George Brandis acknowledged the list existed and stated, “Just because someone’s name appears on a list doesn’t make them guilty.” We agree - the presumption of innocence is a foundational principle of our legal system. However, this principle also relies on the rule of law being applied equally and transparently, including proper investigation of serious allegations.

In the absence of due process, both the reputations of those named and the welfare of alleged victims are left in legal and ethical limbo. If these allegations are unfounded, those accused deserve exoneration. If credible, they deserve to be investigated and prosecuted under the law.

We, the undersigned, call upon the Australian Government to:

• Initiate an independent, transparent investigation into the list tabled by Senator Heffernan in 2015.
• Clarify whether the individuals named have ever been investigated or referred to law enforcement.
• Publicly disclose the outcome of any investigation, redacting names where appropriate to protect due process and privacy.
• Ensure that the findings - whether substantiating or dismissing the allegations - are communicated clearly to the Australian public.
• Commit to strengthening institutional safeguards to protect children from exploitation and abuse.

The failure to transparently address such serious allegations undermines public trust in the justice system, and risks sending a dangerous message about institutional accountability.

This petition does not presume guilt of any individual. It seeks due process, clarity, and protection for children and survivors.

We ask that you act in the public interest and demand our government take action on this buried but not forgotten list.