Sexual violence is possibly the most under reported crime in Australia, yet the impact creates serious and damaging psychological issues that can last a lifetime. Sexually violent crimes are linked to social and historical attitudes, conditions and behaviours in relation to grooming, power and control. These crimes are committed in different situations such as in the home, in public, by a relative, a friend, an acquaintance or a stranger.
Forms of sexual violence can include:
- Inappropriate or unwelcome touching
- Sexual harassment
- Sexual assault
- Rape
- Attempted rape
- Child sexual abuse
- Incest (sexual contact between family members)
- Forcing someone to watch, touch or act in unwanted sexual activities
- Voyeurism (viewing private sexual acts or people undressing)
- Exhibitionism (exposing naked parts of the body to other people)
- Revenge Porn (using computers, mobile phones to expose or distribute sexually-based material)
- Producing or viewing child pornography
The majority of sexual violence goes unreported due to the victim-survivors feelings of fear, shame, misplaced self-blame and guilt.
We encourage every person to reach out for support if they have experienced sexual violence. Some may wish to report to police, other people may choose to not report. Recognising and understanding the intricacies of grooming in relation to sexual violence is important for post trauma growth. Our specialists can talk through options with you and provide you with ongoing psychological support.
Would you like to refer to our Victim Support Unit?
Please note you can refer yourself to our service, as well as family and friends with consent to do so, or if you are an agency representative you can refer a client you are working with. An intake screening will take place to ensure eligibility prior to consultation with our Victim Support Unit.
Click on the corresponding button below and fill in as many details as possible so we can best assist you through intake.
(Select the above option also if you are a family member or friend)
