Tuesday, 5 April 2022

Petitions

Following petition presented to house by Clerk:

Sexual offence reporting

The petition of residents of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Assembly the prevalence of sexual violence which fails to be reflected in the available reporting systems. There is a gap, vast and unknown, between the number of sexual offences that occur and the number that are reported. This gap means that the government does not have accurate data and information on sexual offences, resulting in a lack of targeted and effective policy.

There is a reluctance to report because it is rarely successful. The 2021 Crime Statistic Agency update on the attrition of sexual offence incidents through the Victorian criminal justice system revealed that only 1 in 7 incidents that were reported to the police were proven in court. Women and children in particular do not report due to the perpetrator being a family member (Crime Statistic Agency states this makes up 38.4% of all sexual offences). There are often concerns regarding provoking the perpetrator, victim-blaming, damaging friendships and hindering one’s career.

An online reporting tool that does not result in criminal proceedings addresses all of these concerns; it is a victim-informed alternative to traditional (and ineffective) avenues to justice regarding sexual violence.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly adopt an online tool akin to SARO [Sexual Assault Reporting Option] used in NSW.

This should be an online form that a victim can submit which has the effect of reporting to the police an instance of sexual violence without initiating any criminal proceedings.

There must be the option to submit the form anonymously. There must also be an option to consent to being reached out should the perpetrator prove to be a repeat offender and should they end up in court for related crimes.

The perpetrator must not be alerted as to the report. They must not face repercussions unless the victim decides to pursue a criminal investigation.

By Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) (171 signatures).

Tabled.

Ordered that petition be considered next day on motion of Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield).