The 50-year-old alleges he was a victim of physical and sexual abuse while in care at Ballarat's St Joseph's Boys Home between February 1974 and 1978.

The suit names names Pell, the trustees of the Sisters of Nazareth (formerly St Joseph's), the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and State of Victoria.

He was originally a complainant in a second County Court trial against Pell, dropped by prosecutors over a lack of evidence last year.

"It took a lot of courage and soul searching to be prepared to tell my story, accusing one of the most senior Catholics in the world of serious criminal offences and eventually I was resigned to having my day in court," the man said, adding that not being able to had left him feeling empty.

In a statement of claim, he alleged Pell sexually abused him three or four times in a swimming pool at the home.

Pell was found guilty in December of sexually abusing two boys at St Patrick's Cathedral in East Melbourne in 1996.

He continues to deny all allegations of abuse and the Court of Appeal will consider an appeal application in June.

The man also alleges physical abuse by others at the home and is suing for medical expenses and loss of earning capacity.

Australian Associated Press