Peter Munday has been accused of historic child sex offences. Photo: Supplied.
This story has been updated to include clarification about a dropped charge, and a response from the Canberra Hospital Foundation.
CONTENT WARNING: This story refers to allegations of child sexual abuse.
Prominent Canberra businessman and philanthropist Peter John Munday has been charged over alleged child abuse offences from the 1990s.
The 64-year-old’s case was heard in the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday (31 July).
An ACT Policing spokesperson said the charges had been laid earlier this year.
“A 64-year-old Mawson man [was charged] with acts of indecency, attempt to maintain, and maintain a sexual relationship with a young person offences,” they said.
“[The charges relate] to alleged incidents that occurred in the 1990s.”
According to court documents, Mr Munday faced charges of act of indecency on a person aged between 10-16 years, act of indecency without consent (recklessly) and act of indecency in the presence of a person aged 10-16 years.
Another charge had been laid, but was dropped.
Mr Munday has fundraised for Canberra charities and has worked as a prominent car dealer throughout his career.
In 2019, he was awarded a Medal in the Order of Australia for service to the community through charitable organisations.
He was also a nominee for the ACT Local Hero Award in 2018.
Mr Munday had been on the Canberra Hospitals Foundation board since 2017, but in a statement the charity referred to him as a “former board member”.
The Canberra Hospitals Foundation stated it had become aware of the allegations and proceedings against Mr Munday after being approached by media.
“This is a personal matter unrelated to the Foundation. We will not be making further comment,” it stated.
“Please be assured that Canberra Hospitals Foundation remains focused on its mission—to support patients, families, and staff across Canberra Health Services.
“The Canberra Hospitals Foundation remains committed to upholding the highest standards of trust and integrity.”
Mr Munday also previously raised money for charities including Lifeline, Menslink and the Starlight Children Foundation.
Region reached out to Mr Munday’s representation for comment, but they declined.
His case is expected to come before the court in late August.
If this story has raised any concerns for you, 1800RESPECT, the national 24-hour sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line, can be contacted on 1800 737 732. Help and support are also available through the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 02 6247 2525, the Domestic Violence Crisis Service ACT 02 6280 0900, the Sexual Violence Legal Services on 6257 4377 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. In an emergency, call Triple Zero.
You can also submit an online report about an historical sexual assault allegation for incidents that occurred more than six months ago.
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