Resources - Sexual Assault

Sexual Assault This information is available to download in a word document

This page contains relevant information and resources for students concerned about sexual assault.

Sexual assault can be any behaviour of a sexual nature, which makes someone feel uncomfortable, frightened, intimidated or threatened. Often what one person considers to be assault can differ dramatically to another. In this way it is important when behaving in a way that may be perceived as sexual, that care is taken to ensure any accompanying parties are comfortable with such behaviour. Sexual assault is a prosecutable crime in Australia.

The Trauma of Sexual Assault and Where to Find Help

Sexual assault can represent a variety of actions, some more severe than others. Experiencing any kind of sexual assault, nevertheless, can be very traumatic. The most extreme form of sexual assault is rape, a terrifying and severe violation of personal space and control over one's own body. Due to the severe trauma and fear typically associated with sexual assault, victims can experience a number of serious emotional, physical and psychological difficulties long after the event itself. Mental health problems are common after such a trauma, particularly with regards to anxiety about possible future assaults. See the Swin-eCounselling Anxiety resource page for more information. Current research, however, suggests that having supportive family and friends is the most important factor in ensuring a healthy recovery from sexual assault. If you or someone close to you has experienced sexual assault, there are a number of services and resources available to help you address and overcome this traumatic experience. Speaking with a counsellor can help you to find ways to deal with your thoughts and emotions associated with the sexual assault.

Perpetrators of Sexual Assault

There are also several services and resources available to perpetrators of sexual assault. Often perpetrators may not understand why their behaviour was inappropriate or how better to deal with such a situation. Speaking with a counsellor can assist you to recognise what lead to the inappropriate behaviour, why it was inappropriate and help you to establish alternative options available to you. Sexual assault is a serious crime. If you are a perpetrator of such assault, it is vital that you seek help to deal with this problem before it becomes more serious.

Check out the following resources and services for more information about sexual assault, how it may be avoided, and where to get help.

Swinburne University Services and Resources

Swin-eCounselling Emergency Contact Numbers - Numbers to phone for assistance if you are currently suicidal or experiencing an emergency.
Student Development and Counselling - For one-on-one counselling to help you deal with your thoughts and emotions associated with sexual assault.
Swinburne Health Service - Offers a friendly and accessible service including first aid, medical consultations, health counselling, health promotion and health information. These services are provided at no cost in a strictly confidential manner.
Swinburne Psychology Clinic - For one-on-one, or group, counselling to help address and overcome the trauma of sexual assault.
Local Community Council Databases - Search for your local community services that offer assistance with sexual assault related issues.

Other Sexual Assault Services and Resources

Bouverie Centre, The - The Bouverie Centre, Victoria's Family Institute, is a state-wide integrated clinical, academic and consultation agency specialising in family approaches in mental health service provision.
CASA House - CASA House is attached to the Royal Women's Hospital in Carlton, Victoria, and provides a 24 hour crisis care service, counselling and follow up support and advocacy service, public involvement in campaigns and projects, and community and professional education.
Domestic Violence & Incest Resource Centre - Aims to reduce and prevent family violence by providing education to improve service and policy responses, and by assisting people who have experienced abuse.
Men's Referral Service, The - The Men's Referral Service', the primary telephone counselling and referral service for men in Victoria who use violence towards family members. Men concerned about their use of violence or aggression can ring the Men's Referral Service on (03) 9428 2899 or 1800 065 973.
National Initiative to Combat Sexual Assault (NICSA) - Information and research provided by the Australian Government to help combat sexual assault.
Reach Out! Sexual Assault Tip Sheet - Fact sheet and tips for young people dealing with sexual assault.
South East Centre Against Sexual Assault (SECASA) - Information on Child Abuse, Sexual Harassment & Rape for Children, Family & Friends, Survivors and Workers.
Victorian Centres Against Sexual Assault - The peak body of the 15 Centres Against Sexual Assault, and the Victorian Sexual Assault Crisis Line (After Hours).
When Love Hurts - Domestic violence resource centre for women. Offers information about what makes a healthy relationship, and a guide on love, respect and abuse in relationships.
Women's Information (WIRE) - Provides free information, support and referrals to women across Victoria.