Australian and NSW Governments Launch Free Legal Service for Sexual Violence Survivors

The Australian and New South Wales governments have launched a new Sexual Assault Survivors’ Legal Service (SASLS) to provide free legal advice and assistance to victim-survivors of sexual violence across the state. The $1.74 million initiative expands Legal Aid NSW's capacity to assist individuals navigating the justice system.

The service covers various legal areas, including reporting matters to police, participating in the criminal justice process, managing subpoenas, and addressing other issues related to sexual assault. It also incorporates the Sexual Assault Communications Privilege Service, designed to assist health professionals and organisations in responding to subpoenas regarding counselling or medical records that may have legal protections under NSW legislation.

Funding for the initiative is part of a broader $6.2 million Commonwealth-supported package titled "Strengthening Sexual Violence Justice Responses," delivered through the Federation Funding Agreement. According to the government, this broader package includes:

• $4.36 million for the Sexual Violence Justice System Navigator Pilot Program operating in 11 NSW locations
• $180,000 for research into restorative justice models

Additionally, a separate $3.35 million investment has been allocated to the Sexual Violence Recovery and Healing Grant Program.

Citing data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, government officials noted that approximately one in nine women in Australia have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15, while fewer than 10 percent of victim-survivors report incidents to the police.

Federal Attorney-General Michelle Rowland and NSW Attorney General Michael Daley stated that the service is intended to remove barriers to justice and provide tailored assistance. Legal Aid NSW Chief Executive Officer Monique Hitter added that the service aims to ensure survivors are not left to navigate legal processes unassisted.

The Sexual Assault Survivors’ Legal Service can be reached by phone at 9219 5888 or via email at sasls@legalaid.nsw.gov.au.

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