Sexual Assault is a serious crime.
What is Sexual Assault?
Sexual Assault includes any action in which someone is forced, tricked or threatened into sexual acts. Read more about Sexual Assault...
The definitions and labels for sexual offences differ slightly - in some states sex without consent is called 'rape', in others it is called 'sexual assault', 'sexual intercourse without consent', or 'sexual penetration without consent'. Sexual assault is a crime and is never justified. It is never the fault of the victim.
What is Child Sexual Assault?
Child Sexual Assault is the coercion of dependent children or adolescents into sexual activities with an adult or person older or bigger. The child is unable to give consent due to the unequal power in the relationship.
Child Sexual Assault includes touching a child sexually, masterbating infront of a child, penetrating a child vaginally, anally or orally, with penis, fingers, tongue or an object. It also includes exposing a child to pornography or adult sexual behaviour, involving the child in sexual behaviour with other children- any sexual behaviour with or around a child is sexual abuse.
What Sexual Is Not!
Sexaul Assault is not about you having done something wrong!
Sexual assault is not about perpetrators getting pleasure from sex.
Statistics-The Facts
- Child Sexual Assault happens to one in three to four girls
- Child Sexual Assault happens to one in four to seven boys
- 90% of perpetrators are male
In the majority of cases the perpetrator is known to the child, usually a family member or trusted friend. It can also be someone in a position of authority over the child.
Sexual Assault has many effects.
Everyone reacts to sexual assault differently. Some of the effects might include:
- Shock and denial: eg "Has this really happened to me?" or "Why me?"
- Fear: Of the person [perpetrator], or fear of getting close to other people, or fear of being alone. Being afraid or uncomfortable about sexual relationships. Fear of being judged.
- Silence: Being unable to talk about the assault.
- Anxiety: Being unable to relax or feel safe.
- Feeling Guilt or that you are to blame: A feeling of "Why did I go there/" Or why didn't i fight back?".
- Depression: Feeling sad and as if things are hopeless.
- Shame: Feeling ashamed and dirty.
- Isolated: Cut off from family and friends. That you are the only one.
- Nightmares or flashbacks: Images and memories of the assault intruding on daily life and sleep.
- Mood swings: Going from anger and rage to tears and despair.
- Loss of trust: Of yourself, family or even society.
Sexual Assault and the Law
Sexual Assault is a crime. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted either recently or in the past, then you have a right to report it to the Police.
While you don't have to report to the police, if you decide to report an assault to the Police then an officer trained in talking to victims of sexual assault will take your statement, and you can take someone else as a support person. They may also ask you to have a medical examination, which is where a doctor or health professional makes sure you're physically okay and takes evidence. You can also use the Police Reporting line: the new system where you can make a report without having to make a statement.
Even if you don't go to the police, it is important to get help and support. Perhaps one of our links can provide the help and support you are looking for. Or you may find one of fact sheets in our resource section useful [Resources are listed on the right hand side of this page].
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