Synod Wrapped
The first session of the 43rd Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Bendigo brought together clergy and lay representatives from across the diocese.
One of the most important discussions at Synod concerned the diocese’s approach to redress for survivors of church-related sexual abuse. Bishop Matt Brain presented a session entitled ‘Repairing Wrong: Redress and the Diocese’, outlining the diocese’s ongoing commitment to addressing past abuse through the ‘3-Doorway Method’ adopted by Synod in 2019. Synod passed a motion that:
• Recognised the value of the existing Redress Loan facility, which allows the Diocese to meet redress payments promptly.
• Supported extending the life of the loan facility beyond its planned 2026 expiry.
• Expressed the view that as much of the current redress debt as possible should be forgiven and asked diocesan trustees to explore ways to achieve this.
This decision reflects a strong commitment by Synod to justice, healing, and taking responsibility for historic wrongs, while also seeking to reduce the long-term financial impact on parishes and the Diocese.
Synod debated and passed the Bishopric (Amendment) Bill 2026, making several changes to the legislation governing the future appointment of bishops. A number of amendments were proposed during debate, with some accepted and others rejected. The amended Bill was ultimately passed by both the House of Clergy and the House of Laity. Although largely procedural, bishopric legislation shapes how future episcopal leadership is selected and supported, making it one of the most significant governance decisions made by Synod.
Many parish leaders were interested in proposed reforms to the Parish Administration Act and parish governance structures. Although a conference on parish governance had been scheduled, time constraints meant it could not proceed during Synod. Instead, the Bishop advised that governance materials would be circulated. Parishes have been encouraged to conduct local workshops and discussions to provide feedback back to the Bishop.
Bishop Matt provided an update on the diocese’s strategic property initiative, Every Property Has a Purpose. The project is now entering the stage where specific sites may be identified and confirmed. This remains one of the most significant strategic projects in the diocese and could influence how church land and buildings are used to advance ministry, community service, housing, and mission.
A report was also presented by the recently formed Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) team. The work of reconciliation and strengthening relationships with First Nations peoples remains an important area of diocesan ministry and mission.
The Registrar, Sarah Crutch, presented reports for the two Diocesan Corporations with the aid of some engaging graphics inspired by Spotify Wrapped (see below)! Synod also received reports highlighting ministry work across a wide range of organisations and sectors, including: Anglican Board of Mission, Bush Church Aid, Bencourt Care, The Curnow Centre, Healthcare Chaplaincy, Prison Chaplaincy, Mothers Union, New Horizons Welfare Services, Korus Connect, Kooyoora, La Trobe University Multifaith Spiritual Wellbeing Team. These reports reflected the broad ministry footprint of the diocese in welfare, chaplaincy, mission, community service, and pastoral care.
Synod unanimously endorsed the audited 2025 financial statements for the Bendigo Anglican Diocesan Corporation and Bendigo Diocesan Trusts Corporation. A number of diocesan positions were filled during Synod. And finally, Synod gave thanks for the lives of: Ross Everett (Parish of Eaglehawk) and Shirley Heather (Parish of Inglewood), who were noted for the significant contribution they made to the ministry of the diocese and who have died since the previous Synod.