Almost a third of people in state and faith-based institutions between 1950 and 2019 were abused, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care has found, describing it as a “disgrace” and a “stain” on the national character.

The commission’s report released to the public today said that would remain so if the “gross violations” and injustice are not addressed.

The report spans 15 volumes, printed weighs about 14 kilograms and contains a mammoth 138 recommendations.

Its executive summary stated leaders in those organisations were charged with nurturing, protecting and helping people flourish, but “failed in their duty”.

The inquiry began in 2018, a year after the then Labour-led Government agreed to establish it.

Children, young people and adults were exposed to “unimaginable physical, emotional, mental and sexual abuse, severe exploitation and neglect”, abuse and neglect widespread, the report said.