Sexual Abuse And Assault - Getting Help

If you are in immediate danger:-

phone Triple Zero - 000 or
go to the emergency department at your local hospital.

If you’ve experienced sexual violence -

get yourself to a safe place as soon as possible and call:-

• 1800 RESPECT or 1800 737 732 National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line.
• the Sexual Assault Helpline for your state - see Links To More Information And Phone Numbers For Australia
• Kids Help Line on 1800 551 800.

These services are free, confidential and available 24 hours a day. They can help you by providing referral to free:-

• counselling and support
• medical care, including
• emergency contraception
• medical examinations
• testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Legal and medical concerns

If you’re thinking of reporting the attack to the police, it’s best not to change your clothes, comb your hair or wash yourself. This may remove evidence.

If you decide to have a medical examination, the medical officer:-

• can gather evidence in case you go ahead with the police and legal action
• will talk with you and check how you’re feeling
• will discuss the possibility of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

If you think you may be at risk of pregnancy, you could talk to a doctor about emergency contraception.

Your reaction to the assault

Remember, no one asks or deserves to be a victim of sexual violence. If you were attacked or abused, you are not to blame.

The after-effects of a trauma can be painful and confusing. You may find it helpful to:-

• talk to supportive people like friends, family or counsellors
• read or watch videos about sexual violence and its effects
• write down your feelings.

Where else can you find help?

Services are available to help you deal with the short-term and long-term effects of sexual violence.

Counselling and support -

For free counselling or support, contact the National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line on 1800 737 732 or a sexual assault service for your area - see Links To More Information And Phone Numbers For Australia

Text © The State of Queensland 2012, About Sexual Abuse and Assault : getting help,https://www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-social-issue/sexual-abuse-assault-getting-help.htm Last updated: 17 September, 2012; Viewed 26 October, 2012.