The survivor of child sexual abuse committed by Cardinal George Pell says he has experienced "shame, loneliness, depression and struggle" in the years since.

Today, the lifting of a suppression order has allowed media to report that Pell has been found guilty of sexually abusing two choirboys when he was archbishop of Melbourne.

Pell's surviving victim released this statement via his lawyer, Vivian Waller:

Thank you for your interest in this case. Like many survivors I have experienced shame, loneliness, depression and struggle. Like many survivors it has taken me years to understand the impact on my life. At some point we realise that we trusted someone we should have feared and we fear those genuine relationships that we should trust. I would like to thank my family near and far for their support of me, and of each other. I am a witness in a case brought by the State of Victoria. I have put my trust in the police and the criminal justice system. The process has been stressful and it is not over yet. I need space and time to cope with the ongoing criminal process. I understand this is a big news story but please don't reveal my identity. I ask that the media respect my privacy. I don't want to give any interviews. Please don't come to my home. I want to protect my young family and my parents. I don't want them swept into the spotlight. I am not a spokesperson about child sexual abuse. There are many other survivors and advocates who bravely fill this role. I am just a regular guy working to support and protect my family as best I can. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Editor's note: On Tuesday April 7, 2020, the High Court in a unanimous decision upheld Cardinal Pell's appeal and quashed his convictions on all five charges.