Casa Forum coronavirus update

The global COVID-19 pandemic is a time of great uncertainty that is having a significant effect on everyone, including our clients and those seeking assistance in relation to sexual assault and violence.

CASAs and other sexual assault services are continuing to provide essential support to clients whilst introducing new ways for people to access services during this challenging time. It is important that we all stay as healthy, well and supported as we can.

For the foreseeable future, most services will not be offering face to face counselling – instead, arrangements are being made to provide counselling and support via telephone. Some services are exploring options for providing support via teleconferencing platforms.

• To contact your nearest Centre Against Sexual Assault in Victoria phone the Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 806 292 or Australia phone 1800 737 732.
• You can also continue to contact your local service by telephone or email – details can be found here.
• The Sexual Assault Crisis Line 1800 806 292 will continue to operate as usual, and crisis care responses are continuing with health screening in place.

You can find information and useful advice on the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website including how to reduce risk of contracting coronavirus, and symptoms of coronavirus.

You can call the Department of Health and Human Service’s dedicated hotline on 1800 675 398 - 24 hours a day, seven days a week if you develop symptoms, or have concerns about your health.

Further information is also available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronavirus

Stay well and stay safe.