I think it is a "bugaboo" in different ways in different places.  And, I suspect the situation in Australia is very similar to that here.  We once had a balance point between rights/freedoms of religion and government.  Each knew how not to tread on the toes of the other.  We don't have it anymore.  

The sex abuse scandal and coverup is part of what has raised the issue.  What responsibility does a religious body have to a secular government in upholding the laws and the system of justice in a country in which that religion practices?  When I refer to the "secular government" I am thinking of places like the U.S., Australia, most of Europe, and I mean the government that represents the people of that country and, at least here, is supposed to act for the "common good" of all citizens.