National

Former coach charged with historical sex offences

Nov 1, 2025

Police station sign — Police have charged a 66-year-old Canberra man over alleged historical sexual offences. -AAP Image

Police have named a well-known suburban sporting club, a government organisation and a church linked to a 66-year-old man charged over alleged historical sexual offences.

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The man was arrested at his home in Canberra on Friday and charged with three counts of acts of indecency and one count of an act of indecency against a person under 16.

The man was granted bail on Saturday after a brief appearance at ACT Magistrates Court.

Sexual assault and child abuse team officers confirmed the man worked at or was associated with multiple organisations and groups in Canberra during the past two decades.

Police believe the man was a junior league coach at the club - which has about 800 boys and girls aged five to 17 participating in sports - from 2006 to 2018.

AAP has been told the club only learned of the charges on Saturday through social media.

Investigators confirmed the man was an employee at a government event centre between 2000 and 2015.

The 66-year-old also attended a Baptist church in Canberra between 2004 and 2017.

The man will appear in court again at a later date.

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028