A growing scandal surrounding one of Australia’s most prestigious private schools, Geelong Grammar, has erupted into a full-scale financial and moral crisis.
At least $100 million has been paid out by the elite Victorian institution in legal claims linked to decades of child abuse that were systematically ignored by school leadership. Sources describe the institution’s conduct as akin to a “protection racket.”
The devastating fallout, revealed exclusively by the Herald Sun, has affected hundreds of former students—now described as a “lost generation.” Many are now battling homelessness, addiction, broken families, and severe mental health issues. “Some are on ice, have no teeth, they came from good families… but now they’re homeless,” a school insider told the Herald Sun.
Geelong Grammar was heavily criticised in the 2015 Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse for failing to respond appropriately to complaints or involve police. According to insiders, the school engaged in cover-ups, shredded documents during the Commission’s inquiry, and allowed abusers to operate with impunity.
Among the convicted perpetrators is Philippe Trutmann, a boarding house assistant from 1985 to 1995, found guilty of abusing 40 boys. Legal experts believe the number of his victims could be in the hundreds. Prominent abuse lawyer Judy Courtin confirmed the widespread scale, adding: “These men are now broken. Their lives are in ruins.”
The school’s current financial state reflects the damage. Annual deficits have ranged from $23 million to $48 million since 2018. The 2025 shortfall alone stands at $7.9 million. The liability nightmare continues, with current cases also involving excessive force by teachers, bullying, and unfair expulsions.
Angela Sdrinis, representing 15 former students, said: “Post-Royal Commission, settlements now range from $1 million to $3 million. These are enormous payouts—and justified.”
Principal Rebecca Cody, who now leads Geelong Grammar, expressed sorrow. “While we cannot undo the failures of the past, together we can acknowledge the harm and recognise the pain caused,” she said.
The school has partnered with support services to aid survivors through healingandhope.org.au. Legal firms suggest that more victims will come forward in the years ahead, ensuring this chapter of reckoning is far from over.
