This petition follows an overwhelming public response to the disappearance and death of John Pirona, who left a letter saying he was in ‘‘too much pain’’ following his sexual abuse by a priest as a child.

It also follows Maitland-Newcastle Bishop Bill Wright’s ‘‘broad support’’ for an inquiry into the sex abuse issue, after acknowledging growing public calls for a royal commission.

The Newcastle Herald, which has mounted a sustained campaign on behalf of victims and their families, was approached by parishioners to put this petition together.