A Survivor’s Powerful Voice: Speaking Out Against Decades of Trauma
In a harrowing account delivered to the Victorian County Court, a survivor has bravely recounted the profound and enduring trauma inflicted by a child sex offender. The victim, now 23, presented a tear-filled statement detailing years of suffering and the long, arduous journey towards reclaiming her voice and seeking accountability.
Matthew Leppitsch, the half-brother of former Brisbane Lions star Justin Leppitsch, appeared via video link from the Hopkins Correctional Centre for a plea hearing. This appearance comes four months after he was found guilty of three counts of sexual penetration of a child and one count of committing an act of indecency with a child. These deeply disturbing offences occurred nearly a decade ago within the Leppitsch family home, involving an 18-year-old Leppitsch and the then 13-year-old victim.
The initial assault took place during a social gathering. The victim, whose identity is protected by law, joined Leppitsch in his bedroom to watch a movie. It was during this seemingly innocuous activity that the abuse began. Tragically, this was not an isolated incident. Months later, Leppitsch subjected the victim to further assault during another social function held at the same residence.
A Voice Reclaimed: The Victim’s Emotive Statement
The victim’s statement, read with palpable emotion to the court, painted a stark picture of the devastating impact of these crimes. She revealed how she had carried the “devastating secret” of her abuse for years, a burden that weighed heavily on her young life. “For years I hid the truth, now I am finally reclaiming my voice,” she declared, her voice thick with emotion.
The court heard how the ordeal led to dark thoughts and years of self-harm. Beyond the immense emotional toll, the victim detailed significant financial losses incurred from seeking intensive and ongoing therapy. This included extended periods of treatment in psychological facilities to address complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and borderline personality disorder. “I should never have had to spend much of my life recovering from something that was never my fault,” she stated, her words resonating with a profound sense of injustice.
Despite the overwhelming challenges, the victim expressed her resilience. “Although I could have given up, I did not – because justice and accountability matter,” she affirmed. She forcefully declared that she is no longer defined by the actions of her abuser. “You no longer have power over me Matthew Leppitsch. You are finally being held accountable for all the trauma – and it’s not just me that knows, its everyone. Shame on you.”
Character References and the Path Forward
Family members from both the victim’s and Leppitsch’s sides were present at the hearing. Leppitsch’s defence lawyer, Emily Clarke, informed the court that a significant number of character references, 21 in total, had been submitted by family and friends. These references collectively portrayed Leppitsch as a “kind, caring and thoughtful person.” Clarke also noted that women who provided evidence on his behalf described him as a “safe person.”
Matthew Leppitsch is the half-brother of Justin Leppitsch, a decorated three-time AFL premiership-winning defender who now holds a general manager of talent position at Collingwood.
The court has adjourned the matter to a later date.
Support Services Available
If you or someone you know is experiencing sexual abuse or family violence, please reach out for help. A range of confidential support services are available:
- National Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Counselling Service:
- 24-hour helpline: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
- 24-hour Emergency Accommodation helpline:
- 1800 800 588
- Safe At Home helpline:
- 1800 633 937
- National Violence and Abuse Trauma Counselling and Recovery Service:
- 1800 FULLSTOP (1800 385 578)
- Rainbow Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline (for the LGBTIQA+ community):
- 1800 497 212
- SHE (free and confidential counselling and support):
- 02 6278 9090
- Sexual Assault Support Services:
- 02 6231 1811
- After hours: 02 6231 1817
- Family Violence Crisis and Support Service:
- 1800 608 122
- Bravehearts – Sexual Assault Support for Children:
- 1800 BRAVE 1 (1800 2728 31)
- Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5 to 25):
- 1800 551 800
- Lifeline:
- 13 11 14
- Men’s Referral Service (for anger, relationship, or parenting issues):
- 1300 766 491
- Don’t Become That Man helpline:
- 1300 243 413
