The Cook Government in Western Australia has launched its inaugural plan to address the rising incidence of sexual violence in the state. Coinciding with the start of the 16 Days in WA campaign, the new Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Strategy aims to improve service responses, support victims, and enhance accountability for perpetrators over the next decade.
Recent statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveal a concerning nine percent increase in reported sexual assault victims in Western Australia. In 2024, a total of 3,721 individuals reported incidents of molestation and rape, marking the highest level of reported sexual violence in over three decades. Experts note that these figures likely represent only a fraction of actual cases, as an estimated 90 percent of sexual assault incidents go unreported. Factors contributing to this underreporting include the trauma of recounting experiences and a lack of accessible, culturally-appropriate services.
The strategy encompasses a comprehensive approach, from changing harmful societal attitudes to enhancing support for victims. Meredith Hammat, the Health Minister, emphasized the need for collective action across government, community organizations, workplaces, and schools to effectively combat sexual violence. “Ending sexual violence requires collective responsibility,” she stated.
As part of this initiative, the state government has secured additional funding from the Commonwealth to extend a specialist legal services pilot program for victims through to 2028. First introduced in 2024, the program provides legal representation along with “wraparound” services, including financial assistance and counseling. So far, it has assisted 135 individuals. The program is delivered by Women’s Legal Service WA, Ruah Community Services, and the Aboriginal Family Legal Service, offering support with criminal injuries compensation claims, restraining orders, and victim impact statements. Simone McGurk, the Minister for Women, expressed that this expansion will ensure survivors receive respectful assistance from their initial contact throughout the legal process.
In addition, the government announced a further investment of $300,000 to extend a pilot program offering clinical forensic services related to family and domestic violence through to 2025-26. This initiative, a partnership between various state departments and the Zonta House Refuge Association, operates from a specialized facility at King Edward Memorial Hospital. Since its launch in 2023, the service has aided approximately 125 individuals, conducting 56 forensic examinations and producing 26 medico-legal reports.
Tony Buti, the Attorney General, described the forensic service as “setting a new standard for trauma-informed care.” He emphasized that it aims to deliver justice, safety, and dignity for survivors while holding perpetrators accountable.
As Western Australia embarks on this vital initiative, the hope is that these measures will significantly improve the resources available to survivors and enhance the overall response to sexual violence across the state. For those in need of immediate support, the Sexual Assault Resource Centre can be reached at 1800 199 888 or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
