In January 2025, the Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) released their findings regarding their inquiry into justice responses to sexual violence, making a number of recommendations to enhance access to justice for those who have experienced or are experiencing sexual violence. This report, titled Safe, Informed, Supported: Reforming Justice Responses to Sexual Violence, outlines crucial government approaches that need to be undertaken in order to improve support for victims and survivors, by improving current legislation, court processes, and police and prosecution mechanisms, as well as the overall aim of improving faith in the justice system.
In response to the ALRC’s report, on 6 March 2025 the Federal Government announced a $21.4 million package taking place over 3 years, to support the inquiry findings. This funding has been divided across various reform initiatives, including a $19.6 million extension to the current trauma-informed specialist sexual assault legal services available within Victoria, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory. This money will be allocated to expanding these pilot programs to include one in each jurisdiction of Australia, as well as trialing non-legal services as recommended by the ALRC inquiry. Additionally, $0.6 million will be allocated to engage academic experts and $1.2 million will be allotted to further advise the government on the implementation of the ALRC report.
A link to the media release can be found here: