What if a friend has been assaulted?

If a friend tells you they’ve been sexually assaulted or abused, it means they’ve chosen you as a trusted person and taken a first step towards healing and getting help.

What you do next and how you react to what they tell you is very important. You will have your own feelings to deal with. You might feel:

  • Angry
  • Sad
  • Confused
  • Uncomfortable.

Sexual assault

Generally speaking, sexual assault is any type of unwanted sexual behaviour that makes someone feel uncomfortable, intimidated or afraid.

What is child abuse?

Child abuse is when children or young people are harmed, not protected or not taken care of. Child abuse can happen in many ways, for example: Physical abuse, Emotional abuse, Sexual abuse, Neglect.

You might not know what to say. Be careful - sometimes people laugh without meaning to, when they are nervous or uncomfortable. Try not to let this happen.

You might worry that you can’t support them enough in what they’re going through. Or you might not know where to get help or information.

Your support can make a huge difference to a survivor of sexual assault. You could encourage your friend to call the numbers below. You could sit with your friend when they ring. You can also contact these numbers for more information.

Useful phone numbers

  • Sexual Assault Crisis Line: 1800 806 292
  • Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Unit or Sexual Crimes Squad of the Victoria Police. Call 000 and ask for the unit.
  • Kids Help Line: 1800 55 1800

Links

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For more information

For more information about this or to contact the South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault go to the SECASA website.