Rape & Sexual Assault
Compensation
If you have been sexually assaulted you may be entitled to compensation and financial assistance through the Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT). You may also seek compensation from the offender of the crime, or through civil court action. It does not cost you money to apply.
Reactions to rape
Every person who experiences sexual assault will react in a different way, which will vary according to your background and past experiences. There is no right or wrong way to feel and no set time for when you should be feeling better. To survive and cope with your situation you will draw on your own unique strengths and skills.
Reporting to the police
You have the option to report to police if you have been sexually assaulted. You also have the option to make the report and request that no further action is taken. You are not required to report to police immediately after a sexual assault. However, the advantage of making a report soon after the incident is that it is easier for the police to gather evidence, investigate and charge the offender. If an assault is reported within three days a forensic medical examination will be performed, with your consent, to see if there is any evidence that can be collected. This examination may assist to identify an offender
The impact of sexual assault
The impact of sexual assault is determined by many factors and each survivor reacts to the experience in her or his unique way. There is no right or wrong way to feel and no set time for when you should be feeling better. However, there are some common responses reported by survivors in terms of the impact of being sexually assaulted.
What are the myths and facts about sexual assault?
There are a number of commonly held myths about sexual assault. Unfortunately these are prevalent in all areas of society, from the victims/survivors themselves through to the police and the judiciary. It is important to explode these myths and set out the real facts.
What happens when you contact a CASA?
CASAs work to ensure that women, children and men who are victim/survivors of sexual assault have access to comprehensive, timely support and intervention to address their needs.
What is sexual assault
CASA Forum defines sexual assault as any behaviour of a sexual nature that makes someone feel uncomfortable, frightened, intimidated or threatened. It is sexual behaviour that someone has not agreed to, where another person uses physical or emotional force against them. It can include anything from sexual harassment through to life threatening rape. Some of these acts are serious indictable crimes.