Why do we need an alternative reporting system for sexual assault?

Sexual assault is a serious issue that is under reported to the police and criminal justice system. Estimates suggest only 8% of sexual assaults are ever reported to authorities. In light of increased public attention to this issue, there is growing pressure for police and governments to provide alternative reporting options for survivors.

Alternative and informal reporting mechanisms are becoming increasingly popular as a way for survivors to maintain control of their story, access therapeutic supports, and seek justice. However, designing a scheme that is fit for purpose and suitable for a diverse population requires careful consideration.

Our research team is dedicated to understanding the potentials and uses of alternative reporting mechanisms. We aim to provide research that will inform the development of a best-practice model. By working closely with survivors, government agencies and other stakeholders, we hope to create a reporting pathways that empower survivors and improve responses to sexual assault.

What is our team working on?

Over the last few years, we have worked on the following projects:

Australian Institute of Criminology

Our research team worked on a two year project with the Australian Institute of Criminology investigating the use, purpose, and potential of alternative reporting mechanisms in Australia. Our final report can be found in our recent publications list below.

Victorian Government

We have also worked with the Victorian Government, who contracted our team to provide expert advice on design considerations for an online reporting pathway for sexual violence in Victoria. As part of this, we lead consultations with victim-survivors and other key stakeholders to inform recommendations for design.

Attorney General’s Department

Our research team are currently wrapping up a project with the federal Attorney General’s department on a comprehensive Australia-wide scoping study. This study aims to understand the current and upcoming alternative reporting systems across states and territories, consider best practice and trauma-informed mechanisms, and evaluate the potential benefits of a unified national approach. This project involved extensive consultation with victim-survivors and a wide range of relevant stakeholders across Australia.

Recent Media and Publications

Journal of Police and Criminal Psychology: Research Article

Police Perceptions of Using Alternative and Anonymous Reports of Sexual Assault to Improve Responses to Sexual Offending

Australian Institute of Criminology: Research Report

Alternative reporting options for sexual assault: Investigating their purpose, use and potential

Trends and Issues Paper

Alternative reporting options for sexual assault: Perspectives of victim-survivors

Jobwatch Report

Overwhelmed and Frustrated: Experiences of Workplace Sexual Harassment and Discrimination; The Barriers Faced with the Legal System

Current Issues in Criminal Justice:
Research Article

Connecting survivors to therapeutic support and criminal justice through informal reporting options: an analysis of sexual violence reports made to a digital reporting tool in Australia

ABC Illawarra Interview

One of our chief investigators, Dr Rachel Loney-Howes, chats with Jake Cupitt from ABC Illawarra about the upcoming ALCR inquiry into sexual violence laws and criminal justice system responses. This aired on ABC Illawarra on January 31st, 2024.