Two new state-funded support programs to support victims of sexual assault will be rolled out in Queensland next year.
State Minister for Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Yvette D’Ath said a victim advocacy service pilot will begin early in 2025, while an integrated response to sexual assault program starts in the middle of the year.
Minister D’Ath said the two programs would assist, support and empower victim-survivors of sexual assault.
She said the trauma-informed victim advocacy service would support victims of sexual assault and improve their experience navigating the service and criminal justice system.
“The integrated response to sexual assault service will help experts to collaborate in an integrated way to deliver culturally safe, trauma-informed support for victims of sexual assault.”
Minister D’Ath said the integrated response to sexual assault service would deliver an immediate victim-centric support with expected long-term benefits including increased empowerment, reduced re-traumatisation, bringing perpetrators of sexual violence to account and improved long-term outcomes, including healing.
She said Deakin University had been engaged to consult, research and co-design elements of both service models based on their extensive experience in this field.
“Consultation will occur with sexual violence practitioners, magistrates, legal professionals, and lived experience consultants,” she said
“The project includes consulting people with expertise in gendered violence, criminal justice, and culturally safe practices, as well as First Nations people and migrant women.”
