Statement to be attributed to a spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle:

The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle had been made aware of unconfirmed reports regarding the possible death of former priest John Sidney Denham, however as of this morning, September 11, 2025, was not aware of any formal confirmation.

Since then, Mr Denham’s death has been reported via the media.

There is no requirement for Corrective Services or Police to notify the Diocese of Mr Denham’s passing.

Mr Denham ceased working in the Diocese in the late 1980s. He was formally removed from the clerical state in 2011 and since that time has had no dealings with the Diocese.

Mr Denham was convicted in multiple trials of sexual abuse. The Diocese has previously acknowledged, and continues to acknowledge, that he was a prolific and notorious child abuser whose role as a priest and teacher gave him access to his victims.

The death of an abuser is likely to raise issues for their survivors, in relation to the pain and harm they and their families live with. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.

The Diocese offers a highly personalised, specialist pastoral response to survivors and their families through Zimmerman Service – Healing and Support, which can be contacted during office hours Monday to Friday 02 4923 0636 or via email [email protected].