Australian Law Reform Commission’s Post

As an advocate for survivors' mental health, I couldn't agree more with the statement that breaking the silence around sexual violence is the crucial first step towards ending it. The power of conversation should never be underestimated, as it has the ability to challenge societal norms, dismantle stigmas, and create a supportive environment for survivors. When survivors of sexual violence come forward and share their experiences, they are often met with skepticism, doubt, and victim-blaming. This not only perpetuates a culture of silence but also aggravates the mental health challenges that survivors face. By starting the conversation, we can shift the focus from victim-blaming to survivor support, empathy, and understanding. It is essential to create a society that is free from sexual violence, where survivors are believed, supported, and given the resources they need to heal. By using hashtags like #BreakTheSilence, #EndSexualViolence, and #BelieveSurvivors, we can amplify the voices of survivors and raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual violence in our communities. As an advocate for survivors' mental health, my role is to provide a safe space for survivors to share their stories, to validate their experiences, and to advocate for their rights. I believe that through education, awareness, and empathy, we can work towards creating a society where survivors are not only heard but also supported throughout their healing journey. Let us stand together, break the silence, and work towards a future where sexual violence is eradicated, and survivors' mental health is prioritized. It is time for change, and I am committed to being a voice for survivors, fostering empathy, and fighting for a world where every survivor can thrive.

Informal reporting options for sexual violence could offer a positive and timely alternative for victim-survivors. Read more in our latest #TrendsAndIssues paper bit.ly/3SlezQD #AICResearch If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual violence, please reach out to 1800RESPECT Australia

We now have the Commission of Inquiry report into sexual abuse of children in Tasmanian institutions. This chapter focuses on children in healthcare https://lnkd.in/gnmrFsXp.

May is #SexualAssaultPreventionMonth! #SAPM Wondering what you can do to prevent sexual violence? Find 7 actions to #MakeRipples to prevent sexual violence in this Learning Network Awareness Campaign: https://lnkd.in/gCKV9T4v

The ALRC has released an issues paper that outlines some of the major questions it will address in its inquiry into the justice system’s response to sexual violence. You can download the issues paper here - https://lnkd.in/gpHuqEDy

Preventing and Responding to Conflict-Related Sexual Violence: Examining…

A compassionate and trauma-informed response can help survivors of conflict-related sexual violence feel safe and seek the care they need. We illustrate both helpful and harmful expressions in this post. If in doubt, always consult trained professionals. ❤️ #holisticcare #traumainformed #CRSV #EndCRSV #endrapeinwar #listentosurvivors #standwithsurvivors

Remember: You are never a burden to us. Worried about what happens when you contact our Independent Sexual Violence Advocates*? One of our ISVAs breaks it down for you here. Swipe to read more. Get help at www.safeline.org.uk *Our ISVA service provides support to survivors living in Warwickshire. #whattoexpect #isva #criminaljustice #court #medicaladvice

"Make a submission: The ALRC wishes to respect the ability of people to identify as having experienced sexual violence and to share their experiences in a submission. If you wish to make a public submission with information that identifies you as someone who has experienced sexual violence, please read the important note about public submissions below and select the relevant checkbox when uploading your submission. In some circumstances, if a submission discloses sexual offending against a child, the ALRC may be under a duty to report the disclosure."

Over the last few years we have seen changes to our consent laws, we've seen public discussion around consent and sexual assault change. Arguably since the Lazarus matter there has been a strong push for law reform. In recent years we have seen high profile matters discuss, analyse, comment on issues of consent and sexual violence. The public has seen the toll criminal proceedings can have on a victim. We know that one (of the many) barriers for people bringing complaints of sexual violence to court is how they are treated; from the time of making the complaint to Police to the ultimate hearing. It is highly traumatising for victims survivors. The ALRC Inquiry forms part of the Government’s commitment to strengthen and harmonise sexual assault and consent laws, and to improve outcomes and experiences for victim-survivors in the justice system. Submissions from different stakeholders are so important to understand how the responses to sexual violence in Australia effect different groups with our society. Submissions are due in by 24 May 2024. #wlansw #lawreform #womenlawyers #sexualviolence #DV