Sexual assault is behaviour of a sexual nature that makes you feel uncomfortable, frightened or intimidated.
The law makes rules about sex and sexual touching. The law applies to sexual penetration, which includes anything that involves a penis touching a vagina, anus or mouth. It also includes putting an object or a part of the body into contact with a vagina or anus.
The law also applies to touching a person in a sexual way, like touching another person’s vagina, penis, anus or breasts.
It says that any sexual touching without your agreement (consent) is unlawful and therefore a crime. This is known as a ‘sexual offence’ and is very serious crime. The law sets age limits for having sex, to protect you from exploitation (being taken advantage of) by other people, especially people older then you.
In 2010, the police reported 17,757 cases of sexual assault, of which 25% involved children aged 10 to 14 years. Female victims aged 15-19 have the highest sexual assault rate of any age group.
Victoria Legal Aid - Reporting sexual assault to the police
You need to think about whether you want to report the sexual assault to police. It is important that you make the decisions, rather than having them made for you.
Think through your options. You can get help from a Centre Against Sexual Assault or other support service.
Victoria Legal Aid - Sexual assault
Sexual assault includes rape, incest, child abuse, and unwanted sexual behaviour, for example, unwanted kissing and touching. It also includes behaviour that does not involve actual touching. For example, forcing someone to watch pornography or masturbation is also sexual assault. Sexual offences are serious crimes. Maximum penalties are between five and 25 years in prison. ...
Youth Central - Sexual assault
If you or someone you know has experienced or is experiencing sexual assault or abuse, you should contact the Sexual Assault Crisis Line on 1800 806 292. If you or someone you know need someone to talk to, for any reason, about anything, you can visit eHeadspace, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day. If you are in immediate danger, call the Po...
