Topic: Sexual Assault
Description
Sexual assault is any unwanted act of a sexual nature. This includes:
- touching
- exposure
- incest
- rape.
Sexual assault is a crime. It happens because someone wants to take advantage of someone else. It is an act of violence. It can happen to anybody. Most often, people are sexually assaulted by someone they know and trust such as a friend, relative or someone from work.
Helpful Hints
If you have been sexually assaulted:
- get to a safe place as soon as possible
- call the sexual assault helpline (women) 1800 010 120 for help or have someone call for you as soon as you can.
Your options for emergency help include:
- counselling and medical care
- emergency contraception
- forensic examination
- testing for sexually transmissible infections (STIs)
- assistance with contacting the police
- information on sexual assault, follow-up services, and your rights as a victim of crime.
Police and health services are specially trained to assist you if you wish to report a sexual assault. It is best not to change your clothes, comb your hair or wash yourself until you have spoken with the police or health service. It is important to try and keep as much evidence as possible.
If you speak with the police, they will ask some very difficult questions. It is important for the police to have as much information as possible about what has happened to you.
If you decide to have a medical examination, the medical officer will talk with you, check how you are and discuss with you the possibility of pregnancy and sexually transmissible infections. They can also gather information as evidence in case you go ahead with police and legal action.
Being sexually assaulted is not your fault. No-one has the right to violate another person in this way. Nobody ever deserves to be sexually assaulted.
Services are available which will help you to recover - take advantage of these services.
Practical Advice
A range of support services are available for victims of sexual assault:
Sexual Assault Helpline
For after hours support for all Queensland women who have experienced sexual assault or abuse
Ph: 1800 010 120 (free call)
(Monday to Friday 6.00pm - 8.00am; weekends and public holidays 24 hours)
Men’s Sexual Assault Service
Ph: 0411 220 055 (24 hours)
Ph: 07 3227 8666 (9.00am - 5.00pm)
Crisis Care (child sexual abuse service)
Queensland
Ph: 1800 177 135 (24 hours - free call)
Lifeline Counselling
Australia-wide
Ph: 13 1114 (24 hours)
Domestic Violence Telephone Service
Ph: 1800 811 811 (24 hours - free call)
Women’s Legal Service
Brisbane
Ph: 07 3392 0670
Other Resources
Queensland Health - Sexual Health website
Last updated: 28th April, 2008
Review Date: 15th November, 2006
