Sydney Auxiliary Bishop Richard Umbers Steps Aside Following An Abuse Allegation

Bishop Richard Umbers, auxiliary bishop of Sydney, has stepped aside from public ministry after being served with a civil claim alleging historical abuse. The Archdiocese of Sydney announced the decision last week, emphasising that Umbers “emphatically denies the allegation” and is cooperating fully with both civil and Church processes. Details such as when, where, who is purportedly affected, and what exactly is claimed have not been publicly disclosed. The archdiocese’s statement did not provide specifics beyond confirming the existence of the claim. As of now, New South Wales Police have confirmed they are not aware of any criminal investigation and there’s no active police inquiry