Women’s Legal Centre ACT and Victims Support ACT will take part in the national pilot of a specialised and trauma-informed legal service for sexual assault victim-survivors.
In the October 2022 Federal Budget, the Australian Government provided $8.4 million over three years (from 2023-24 to 2025-26) to pilot three specialised and trauma-informed legal services across Australia. The pilot locations – the ACT, Victoria, and Western Australia – were selected after a competitive, merit-based assessment process, informed by consultations with people who have experienced sexual violence, advocates, and support services.
The new Sexual Assault Legal Service will provide trauma-informed services, including legal advice and representation, to help victim-survivors engage with the criminal justice system and related legal issues.
Support includes general advice and information, engagement with police and the prosecution, support and advice during the criminal proceedings and post-sentence, referrals, and wraparound client support coordination via Victims Support ACT. The wrap-around services include financial assistance, counselling, and specialist support.
“In 2021, two in three victim-survivors of sexual assault reported negative experiences with their engagement with the justice system,” Elena Rosenman, CEO of the Women’s Legal Centre ACT, said. “They have lamented their lack of a voice and limited participation in court proceedings. We want to change that story.”
“We are delighted to expand the support we provide to victim-survivors through this pilot service,” Margie Rowe, acting Victims of Crime Commissioner, said. “We will work closely with partners in criminal justice agencies and specialist support services to improve the experiences of victim-survivors engaging with the justice system.”
“The Director of Public Prosecutions is excited about the announcement and looks forward to working collaboratively with both the Women’s Legal Centre and Victims Support,” acting DPP Anthony Williamson SC said.
“This is a significant step in ensuring adequate support is provided to victim-survivors of sexual violence,” said Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury.
“This service will assist in removing the barriers to engaging with the criminal-justice system facing victim-survivors.
The ACT Government is committed to preventing and responding to sexual violence in the ACT and progressive sexual assault law reform.
As part of its response to the 24 recommendations from Listen. Take Action to Prevent, Believe and Heal report, since 2021-22, the ACT Government has committed more than $15 million over five years to improve sexual assault prevention and responses in the Territory.
