Sexual assault and sexual violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, ability, social class, gender, ethnic background or sexual orientation.
It can be committed by anyone regardless of their relationship to you.
It doesn’t matter who they are how you know them. Sexual assault is a crime.
You have options on reporting sexual assault and sexual violence.
What is sexual violence?
‘Sexual violence’ refers to a sexual act that occurs without consent and can include a wide range of behaviours.
The violence may be physical or non-physical and includes the psychological impact of non-consent.
‘Sexual violence’ is not a legal term, but would include the criminal offences of:
- sexual assault
- sexual touching
- sexual act
Reporting sexual violence
There is no time limit on reporting sexual violence to police.
You can report something that happened a week ago, a year ago, or a while ago, and your reporting options remain the same.
Call Triple Zero (000) if you are at immediate risk.
Online
Report online through our SARO (Sexual Assault Reporting Option).
You can provide your details or remain anonymous.
If you just want it on the record, and don’t want us to contact you or investigate, we won’t.
In Person
Report in person by attending a police station or contact us and we will come to you.
You can decide if you want your report investigated.
The police will give you information, support, and respect whatever you choose to do.
Anonymously
Report anonymously online through our SARO (Sexual Assault Reporting Option).
The information you provide won’t be investigated, but will be kept on record and will assist the police collect information about sexual offences and offending.
What happens next?
What happens when you report is your choice.
You can have an appropriately trained police officer commence an official investigation or you can have an informal conversation with us to help you decide if you want your matter investigated
You can ask questions and express your opinion.
You can change your mind later on.
It’s your say, your way.
You are not alone
Sexual violence can happen to anyone regardless of age, ability, social class, gender, ethnic background or sexual orientation.
Sexual violence can be committed by anyone, regardless of their relationship to you. This includes family members, friends, acquaintances, strangers, work colleagues, partners, and ex-partners.
There is no acceptable explanation for sexual violence.