Strengthened protections for people who have experienced sexual violence

NIFVS welcomes the Victorian Government’s announcement to strengthen protections for people who have experienced sexual violence.

For the family violence sector, we see every day how fear of systems – particularly concerns about how personal information might be used – can be a barrier to people seeking support. Being able to access counselling and specialist services without worrying that deeply private information could later be used in court is a significant and much needed shift.

Court processes can be overwhelming and retraumatising. Giving victim-survivors the option to pre-record their evidence is a meaningful step that can reduce distress and support safer participation in the justice system.

As these reforms take shape, it will be important to ensure protections extend across the broader service system, including family violence and other specialist services that people turn to for support.

We also echo the importance of continued investment in specialist services, recognising that many people who experience sexual violence do not engage with the justice system, but still require access to safe, timely and trauma-informed support.

The Hon Sonya Kilkenny MP, Victoria’s Attorney-General, discusses the legal changes and strengthened protections in a message for victim-survivors:

The NIFVS partnership acknowledges Victorian Aboriginal people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we provide our services. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and recognise the ongoing living culture of all Aboriginal people. We express commitment to Aboriginal self-determination and our hope for reconciliation and justice.