A Victorian man, Ronald Marks, known for his dedication to children’s cultural education programs, found himself at the center of a concerning situation. Despite being arrested for accessing child abuse material, he managed to hold onto a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) for four years. This revelation has sparked significant outrage and calls for a review of the current WWCC system in Victoria.
Ronald Marks, a respected Wergaia elder in Horsham, was convicted in the city’s Magistrates’ Court after pleading guilty to accessing child abuse material between 2012 and 2021. The court imposed a $7,500 fine on the 74-year-old and mandated that he report to Victoria Police for the next eight years.
During those four troubling years post-arrest but pre-charge in January 2025, Marks continued his work within kindergartens where he educated students on cultural issues. It was not until detectives initiated an investigation in 2021 that his physical WWCC card was finally confiscated.
The gap in the system became glaringly evident as it allowed someone under investigation or arrest over child-related offenses to retain a valid WWCC until charged or convicted. Tammy Smith from Yarriambiack Shire Council expressed her concerns about this flaw:
“I know a person is innocent until proven guilty but we do have to have some safety measures in place to protect our children.”
Following public outcry and media exposure of this unsettling case, the government swiftly responded by conducting an urgent review into Victoria’s WWCC system. Changes are anticipated to be implemented soon based on recommendations put forth by authorities.
Elicia Napoli from Emerge Early Years Services emphasized the critical need for suspending WWCCs of individuals under investigation for child-related crimes:
“There are risks to children, families, educators if that doesn’t happen.”
She underscored the importance of cultural education while ensuring stringent protective measures are upheld.
Moreover, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation (BGLC), representing traditional landowners of the area where Marks operated, expressed deep shock and disappointment at the news. They promptly terminated all services provided by Marks and vowed to conduct a thorough review of their past engagements with him.
In response to these distressing revelations, efforts are underway to rectify the situation symbolically as well. The council is collaborating with BGLC to remove Ronald Marks’ likeness from a prominent silo art installation at Sheep Hills. Ensuring child safety remains paramount as they navigate through this challenging period.
The implications of this case extend far beyond one individual’s actions; they highlight systemic loopholes that must be addressed promptly and effectively. As communities grapple with safeguarding protocols and regulatory frameworks surrounding child protection measures, transparency and accountability emerge as fundamental pillars essential for ensuring children’s safety and wellbeing.
