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The main points
- Sexual Assault is any unwanted sexual attention or activity that makes a person feel threatened, uncomfortable or violated.
- It happens without consent or with consent gained through force, pressure, coercion, bullying or harassment.
- Sexual assault can happen to men and women of all ages and appearances, from all walks of life.
What is sexual assault?
Sexual assault isn't just rape. It's any unwanted sexual attention or activity that makes a person feel threatened, uncomfortable or violated. It happens without consent or with consent gained through force, pressure, coercion, bullying or harassment. It can happen when a person isn't able to consent (e.g. when they've had too much to drink or taken drugs).
Sexual assault can happen to men and women of all ages and appearances, from all walks of life.
The feelings of a person who has been sexually assaulted vary. They can include fear, grief, anger and shame and many feel they are to blame. These feelings can last for years and can go away and come back at different times in the person's life.
What if it happens to me?
If it happens to you, you need to get help. Contact the Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA) 24 hour hotline on T/ 1800 806 292.
There is a CASA for every area of Victoria. Their services are free and confidential and they will give you expert advice about what to do.
You can also see your doctor or go to one of our clinics. We offer emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmissible infections and can refer you to counselling support services.
Where to get more information, support or advice
- Contact your local doctor (GP)
- Contact Sexual Health Victoria's clinics
- Visit the Centre Against Sexual Assault
- Visit Better Health Channel
