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Bibliographies

Australian materials are indexed in the Australian Family and Society Abstracts Database and are available for loan from the ACSSA collection at the Australian Institute of Family Studies library. Online publications in PDF format require Adobe Acrobat Reader.

Victim/Survivors: Service Responses

Australian publications

International publications

A best practice manual for specialised sexual assault crisis telephone counselling.
Rummery, Fiona
Drummoyne, NSW: NSW Rape Crisis Centre, 2003, 48p
This manual is a guide designed to assist workers at the NSW Rape Crisis Centre in their work to provide telephone crisis counselling to women who have experienced sexual violence. The manual attempts to standardise the approach taken by counsellors in assessing and managing those seeking assistance through the Rape Crisis Centre, and draws on the knowledge and experience of the counsellors as well as other associated health professionals. The guide covers: initial stages of contact; ongoing contact and case management; crisis intervention; risk assessment procedures; and general issues for survivors of sexual violence.

A best practice model for the prosecution of complaints of sexual assault by the NSW Criminal Justice System. (PDF 64K)
NSW Rape Crisis Centre and Anne Cossins.
Drummoyne, NSW : NSW Rape Crisis Centre, 2007

A capacity building process for women with a history of child sexual abuse.
Van Loon, Antonia; Kralik, Debbie.
Australian Journal of Primary Health v.12 no.2 Aug 2006: 167-176, figure, table
We report the research process used to promote the capacity of women made homeless by the consequences of addictions to alcohol, drugs or gambling, that are considered the result of being sexually abused as children. We aimed to improve the capacity of service providers working with this client group. We used the participatory action research (PAR) process 'Look, Think, Act', employed by Stringer (1999; Stringer & Gene!, 2004). 'Looking' involved building a picture of the issue based on available information. Participants described what was going on so a clear picture of the context emerged. "Thinking" was the clarification phase where meanings and feelings generated by the experience were explored. It involved sense-making questions such as, "What is happening and why? How am I feeling about this?" The aim was to understand the when, what, where and how of the experience. After describing the issues the women were invited to think about what they could do about the issue. 'Acting' (a difficult phase), involved effecting change. Action required involvement with the situation. It was a new skill for many women as they had become disengaged with their lives. They were encouraged to choose actions that moved them towards chosen goals. Many women had become so disempowered they ignored their needs and had few hopes or aspirations. We encouraged them to take the smallest and most easily managed actions likely to have the most benefit for their wellbeing. The process arid the outcomes are described in this paper. 

Access and equity in services against sexual violence. (PDF 56K)
Weeks, W
Women Against Violence - An Australian Feminist Journal no.11 2001 - 2002: 22-34
This article reports on research undertaken in 2001 into access and equity practices undertaken by services against sexual violence in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander women and children, and women and children from ethnic minority communities. The article identifies some ethical dilemmas about 'who should decide?', and then presents nine strategies which describe how the services are responding to challenges to increase access and equity. (Journal abstract)

After abuse.
Mammen, Gita.
Camberwell, Vic: ACER Press, 2006, 139p, figures
This guide is designed to help health practitioners work with the mental health of adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. It describes techniques for working with survivors, which derive from many schools of thought. The book discusses: the trauma of childhood sexual abuse, including developmental trauma, types of traumatic events, secrecy, the adult health aftermath of childhood sexual abuse and adult mental health; how service frameworks affect help available to survivors, the types of help survivors seek, survivor health care pathway, types of agencies and practitioners that survivors approach, relevance of service frameworks to a survivor, the current service spectrum, and how perpetrator work differs; assessment and goal plans; preliminary considerations, principles and pitfalls; underpinnings of early and ongoing abuse specific work; strategies and techniques in early and ongoing abuse specific work; memory; and the social context of abuse specific mental health care. Case studies are presented throughout. 

'All you do is look back and regret' - disenfranchised grief as an obstacle for recovery from abuse.
Scott, M; Weisz, S
Grief Matters v.5 no.3 Summer 2002: 47-49
Survivors of domestic violence and child sexual abuse suffer significant losses through these experiences. Often, in concentrating on survival and escape, we can ignore or diminish the importance of these losses, thus not allowing a woman time to grieve. In order to support the process of recovery, women and children need time and opportunity to grieve and, through this, move towards healing. (Journal abstract)

Another Closet: Domestic violence in same sex relationships
Gray, Brad.
Darlinghurst, NSW: ACON Information, 2002, 34p.
Domestic violence and sexual assault in intimate relationships within gay and lesbian relationships are addressed in this booklet. Identifying abuse in same sex relationships, and steps that can be taken to seek help are outlined.

Anyone's story: understanding and responding to adult sexual assault.
Education Centre Against Violence (NSW); New South Wales. Police Force.
Parramatta, NSW: NSW Health, New South Wales Police, 2004, 40 minute video plus guide
The first part of this video provides an overview of adult sexual assault. It includes interviews with male and female victims, police, offenders, counsellors and sexual assault doctors and examiners, and looks at scenarios and effects of sexual assault. The second part is a dramatisation of the sexual assault of a woman and her subsequent experiences with police and health professionals in New South Wales. An accompanying guide provides suggestions for use of the video in training, including questions for discussion.

Are men and women equally violent? Understanding claim making. (PDF 200K)
Fisher, Stephen.
Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse Newsletter no.21 April 2005: 5-3, figure, and Online
A forum that addresses men as victims of domestic violence was conducted in South West Sydney in December 2004. The author was a panellist at this forum and presents his thoughts in this article. Further research that embraces a pro-feminist male positive stance is recommended.

Before it's too late: domestic violence in the Polish community: an analytical approach to defining the nature and prevalence of domestic violence in the Polish community.
Szczepanska, Elizabeth.
Footscray, Vic: Australian-Polish Community Services, 2004, 57p, tables, figures
The broad aim of this study was to investigate the issue of domestic violence in the Polish community and the experiences and barriers Polish women faced in seeking assistance for domestic violence. The report provides information on definitions, theories and incidences of domestic violence, and examines domestic violence in culturally and linguistically diverse groups, in particular women in the Polish community in Victoria. Key findings are given for Polish women who both did and did not access domestic violence services.

Betrayal of trust: the experiences of adult women victim/ survivors of child sexual assault. (PDF 27K)
Rokvic, D
In: 8th Australian Institute of Family Studies Conference, Melbourne, 12-14 February 2003: proceedings. Melbourne, Vic: Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2003, 11p. Online only
This paper aims to explore the collective experiences of adult women victim/ survivors of childhood sexual assault who contact our service seeking support and counselling in relation to the impact of sexual assault on their lives. I will briefly address some of the common effects of sexual assault and the societal responses to adult victim/ survivors of child sexual assault. The paper will also briefly touch on the particular practice issues for service providers in the field who are working with adult victim/ survivors of childhood trauma. (Author abstract)

Beyond Belief, Beyond Justice: The difficulties for victim/survivors with disabilities when reporting sexual assault and seeking justice. (PDF 1.1M)
Goodfellow, Jonathon; Camilleri, Margaret.
Melbourne, Victoria: Disability Discrimination Legal Service Inc., 2003, 81p
This report represents the end of Stage One of the Sexual Offences Project for Women with Disabilities. It aims to examine the obstacles victim/survivors with cognitive impairment experience when reporting sexual assault and proceeding with prosecution in Victoria. It includes chapters on the background to the project; research, reports and legislation; policy and practice; and findings and recommendations. There are four appendices containing a glossary, bibliography, consultation questions for sexual assault workers, and a flow chart of critical decision making points following disclosure. The report shows that victim/survivors of sexual assault with cognitive impairment are more vulnerable to abuse than those without a disability; generally have less knowledge of appropriate sexual behaviour (and of the law); may be denied self-determination in reporting; and are frequently disbelieved when they report sexual assault. These and other factors were considered to contribute to the decreased incidence of reporting sexual assault by victim/survivors with cognitive impairment.

Building partnerships between mental health, family violence and sexual assault services. (PDF 528K)
Project Report, Victorian Government Department of Human Services, Mental Health Branch, Melbourne, Victoria, 2006
The Partnerships Project was established to improve outcomes for women with a mental illness who have experienced sexual assault and/or family violence. Specifically, the Partnerships Project aimed to:
• facilitate improved relationships and service collaboration between family violence, sexual assault and specialist mental health services
• improve service access and referral pathways between family violence, sexual assault and specialist mental health services
• improve service delivery outcomes for female consumers of mental health services.

Building generations: a strengths-based, solution-focussed, parenting program for female adult survivors of childhood family sexual violence: manual.
Basham, Sandra.
Perth, WA: Incest Survivors' Association, 2007, 217p
Survivors of childhood intrafamilial sexual abuse or domestic violence often face problems when they become parents - overprotective or neglectful parenting skills, fears of not being a good parent, or risks of a repeating cycle of family violence. The 'Building Generations' parenting program provides education and support for groups of women, and covers parenting styles, healthy versus unhealthy parenting, consistency, handling emotions, child development and behaviour, safety issues for children, dealing with anger and violence, and self care. This manual outlines group sessions, and includes handouts, background information and literature review, and tips for group facilitation and closure.

Bursting the bubble and empowering young people.
Babbel, Jessamy
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.4 Summer 2003: 21-23
This article explains the philosophy and key features of the website Bursting the Bubble, a resource for young people living with family violence. Following focus groups with young people, the website developers decided to emphasise the experience and knowledge of young people who have survived abusive family life in order to help others in similar situations, and attempt to avoid the further disempowerment of young people that can occur when adults tell them what to do without fully understanding their responses to the trauma they had experienced. The website includes information on dealing with feelings, having a safety plan, and how to help a friend.

Caring about sexual assault: the effects of sexual assault on families, and the effects on victim/survivors of family responses to sexual assault.
Morrison, Zoe.
Family Matters no.76 2007: 55-63
Sexual assault effects families and communities, as well as the victim. This article considers the effects on the families of adult sexual assault victims, and how the reactions and responses of family members can help or hinder the victim's recovery. The trauma of sexual assault can have emotional, physical, social, and financial effects on the victim, which can affect those who care for them and lead to secondary traumatisation. Research indicates that trauma impacts differently upon specific family members, such as intimate partners, parents, and children. Negative responses by family members or the community can further traumatise the victim, and affect whether the victim seeks help or discloses the crime. The article concludes by outlining actions and behaviours for family members that can help the victim and themselves in the aftermath.

Childhood sexual assault and homelessness: if the child protection safety net doesn't work ... does SAAP catch them?
Tully, D
Parity v.16 no.2 Mar 2003: 19-21
SideStreet Counselling service is a service of Adelaide Central Mission and has been established to respond to the issues of sexual abuse and young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This article looks at the inter relationship between sexual abuse and homelessness, and the need to address the issues and implications for services.

Churches as partners in institutionalised abuse: disarming the 'bible-bashers'.
Hill, Fiona D.
Women Against Violence - An Australian Feminist Journal no.18 2005 - 2006: 5-17
Abuse affects all aspects of a person's life including religious experience. Since the early 1990s the avalanche of abuse complaints flowing from Australian church communities has shaken the country to its highest religious and vice regal offices, and also deeply stained Australia's national history. Church hierarchies use the Bible, and other control mechanisms, to both justify church perpetrated abuse and limit survivors' options. This paper calls on survivors to turn the tales on the 'Bible bashers' by challenging how biblical material is used within church and community contexts. and also by unmaskng the ideology and church rhetoric that has traditionally legitimated abuse. (Journal abstract) 

Collaborative social work practice in opposing paradigms: issues to emerge from a sexual assault and mental health project
Morley, Christine.
Women Against Violence - An Australian Feminist Journal no.16 2004 - 2005: 4-14
This paper discusses the experience of coordinating a community development project to develop collaborative links between a mental health and a sexual assault service. It presents a critically reflective description and analysis of this work to outline how postmodern ideas were used to maximise the possibilities of using feminist frameworks in practice. (Journal abstract, edited)

A Comparative Assessment of Good Practice in Programs for Men who use Violence Against Female Partners.
Office of the Status of Women.
Canberrra, ACT: Office of the status of women, the Department of the Prime Minisyer and Cabinet, 2004, p196
This report outlines structures, processes and practices that are central to establishing and maintaining quality programs for men who are violent towards their female partners. This report is commensurate with the core principles of the Partnerships Against Domestic Violence (PADV 2) taskforce.

Councils and counsellors.
Collyer, L
In: Practice and prevention: contemporary issues in adult sexual assault conference. Sydney, NSW: NSW Attorney-General's Department, Crime Prevention Division, 2003, Online only
The author discusses how, during August and September 2000, there were eight reported group sexual assaults with a similar modus operandi committed in the Bankstown local government area. She details how Bankstown community and the local Council responded and demonstrates how local government can play an important role in issues such as sexual assault. She describes how a working party was set up, how the community dealt with the media intrusion, the safety and awareness projects that were put together, the Reclaim the Night march, and how funding was gathered.

Counterpoint: a refuge for young women.
Connelly, E
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.3 Spring 2002: 22-24
An overview is provided of the background to, and services offered by Anglicare's Counterpoint, which provides short-term, crisis accommodation for young women aged between 18 and 25 years who are homeless, or in imminent danger of being made homeless, due to escaping family violence or sexual assault.

Crawling through caves/standing tall in the sun: a group work model for young women survivors and their carers.
Blake, Stephanie; Katsikas, Maria.
In: Home Truths: Stop Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence, a National Challenge Conference, Melbourne, September 2004: presentations. Melbourne, Vic: CASA Forum, 2004, 15p, tables, Online only
A group work model for young women who have experienced sexual abuse, which combines trauma, developmental and wilderness theory with a discussion model, is described. The paper discusses: the benefits of group work for young women; adolescent development; trauma framework; wilderness and adventure therapy; the which used wilderness therapy and physical activities in a narrative framework to promote the reconnection of physical and emotional experiences; the importance of hope; the target group for the model; assessment of potential participants; inviting parent or carer involvement; phases of the model; and facilitation of the group.

Crime victimisation.
Australian Bureau of Statistics.
In: Australian Bureau of Statistics. Year book Australia 2007. Belconnen, ACT: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2007, 3p, figures, Online
The National Crime and Safety Survey (NCSS) was carried out from April to July 2005 and collected information from individuals and households about their experience of selected crimes during the previous 12 months. The crimes covered by the NCSS included: house break ins, motor vehicle theft, robbery, assault and sexual assault. The analysis of the results given here covers: victims of crime; how much crime is reported to police; how safe do people feel; people's perceptions of neighbourhood problems.

Developing an integrated response to family violence in Victoria; issues and directions. (PDF 1.7M)
Domestic Violence & Incest Resource Centre.
Melbourne, Victoria: Domestic Violence & Incest Resource Centre, 2004, pp47. Online
This paper examines an integrated response to family violence that has been developed as a response to domestic violence in Victoria in recent years. Research and policy are reviewed and strategies for networking across community services and the justice system are examined, with an aim to assist policy makers and providers to work together to imporve the safety of women and children.

Development of competency based standards, to an advanced level, for practitioners working with men who use domestic violence and abuse.
Centre for Research in Education and Work (CREEW), University of South Australia.
Canberrra, ACT: Office of the Status of Women, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, 2004, 176p (Partnerships Against Domestic Violence)
This report delivers competency based standards for practitioners working with people who use domestic violence and abuse. The report identifies distinctive units of competency in the work of practitioners who provide interventions, and develops a range of materials that will support the implementation of these units of competency. Recommendations are made for further research including the development of a national set of standards for those working with women who have been abused by their male partners.

Domestic violence and the workplace: make it your business.
Taylor, Betty
Office of the Status of Women, 2004, resource kit (looseleaf kit of sheets,training modules and materials, CDROM PowerPoint presentation.)
Domestic violence can take an enormous toll on victims and inturn on the workplace as a whole. This training kit has been devised to raise awareness and develop skills amongst employers and employees in recognising and responding to domestic violence within the workplace. The kit is developed for one day training events, and the seven modules can also be used as stand-alone training aids.

Elder abuse: similarities and differences to domestic violence.
Hastie, Cheryl.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.2 winter edition 2005: 03-08
This article looks at the differences between elder abuse and domestic violence and Australian data available on elder abuse. Issues facing older people and implications for intervention are examined.

Emergency medical response to sexual assault.
Royal Women's Hospital (Melbourne, Vic.).
Carlton, Vic: Royal Women's Hospital, 2006, 1 DVD (23 min.)
The recommended medical response to sexual assault by doctors working in the emergency department of Melbourne's Royal Women's Hospital is described. The video gives a definition of sexual assault, explains the role of CASA House at the hospital, and covers issues that emergency doctors may be concerned about. These include: making reports to the police, history taking, examination, forensic sampling, investigations, screening for sexually transmitted infections, follow up support, and what happens if the patient changes her or his mind. 

Evaluation of the 2002 16 days of activism against gender violence campaign (South Australia). (PDF 2.28M)
Visser, Alison; Stojadinovic, Tanja.
South Australia: Women's Health Statewide, Governemnt of South Australia, 2002, 36p, Online only
This evaluation identifies the benefits of a consciousness raising campaign focussed on the issue of adults subjected to sexual abuse in childhood (ASCSA). Networking with other services and organisations to share information on methods of campaigning and to develop relationships with sexual assault services nation-wide is recommended.

Evaluation report: Polish Domestic Violence Support Group: "Before It's Too Late". (PDF 283K)
Szczepanska, Elizabeth..
Melbourne, Vic: Australian-Polish Community Services Inc. 1st ed., 2005, p20, and Online
This report evaluates the Polish Domestic Violence Support Group project conducted between June and December 2004 called "Before It's Too Late", from the perspective of participants and the program facilitator. It was found that the program and the implemented therapeutic interventions made a significant and positive impact and improved the emotional well-being, sense of safety and belonging for all participants. It also reduced the fear of social rejection and stigma attached to victims of domestic violence.

Family violence is a workplace issue: models of family violence prevention through the workplace.
Victorian Community Council Against Violence.
Melbourne, Vic: Victorian community council against violence, 2004, 13p
Models of family violence prevention through the workplace are examined. Through case studies what workplaces can do to prevent family violence are described with practical examples and procedures. The important role of the workplace in preventing and recognising family violence is emphasised.

Feminist thinking in male sexual assault programs.
Sainz, Robert.
Psychotherapy in Australia v.11 no.2 Feb 2005: 49
This article reports on a men's group which focused on the shared experience of being 'survivors' of sexual assault. In what the author describes as a 'feminist inspired project, a hybrid of narrative therapy, psychology of the self and Jungian archetypes, men discussed openly the most vexed, perennial and marginalised issue of masculinity.'

Figuring violence: the costs of domestic violence.
McKenzie,Mandy.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.2 winter edition 2005: 31-32
This article summarises some of the findings from the second volume of the report by Access economics titled 'The cost of domestic violence to the Australian economy'. It provides estimates of violence against men and against same sex partners and the number of children witnessing domestic violence. A breakdown of the cost of domestic voilence is provided.

Finding the spaces between 'us' and 'them': the pursuit of equity in sexual assault service provision.
Stewart, S
In: Practice and prevention: contemporary issues in adult sexual assault conference. Sydney, NSW: NSW Attorney-General's Department, Crime Prevention Division, 2003, Online only
The author presents results of some exploratory investigations with women from a range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds who are potential sexual assault service users. She discusses the participants' responses to the following: responses to the information; awareness of sexual assault services; access, equity and confidentiality; awareness raising strategies; and perceptions of sexual assault. Consultations with two other groups are discussed: NSW health service providers attached to hospitals or community health centres that provide counselling, medical care and examinations, court preparation practical support to people who have been sexually assaulted; and generalist bilingual counsellors and bilingual mental health workers working within the mainstream health system. The author then discusses service provision strategies and prevention and awareness raising activities.

Four new resources for those working with survivors of child sexual abuse.
van Loon, Anne.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.11 May 2006: 17-19, and Online
A two year capacity building participatory action research project, which worked with women survivors of childhood sexual abuse and their service providers, is discussed. The article looks at the background to the project; the research process; the methodology, which was based on the Look, Think and Act process; and the four new resources that were produced as outputs of the project. 

From shame to pride: access to sexual assault services for Indigenous people. (PDF 758K)
Consultation outcomes, reports and recommendations.
Thorpe, Lisa; Solomon, Rose; Dimopoulos, Maria.
Melbourne, Vic: Elizabeth Hoffman House, 2004, 68p
A number of reports have indicated that the rate of sexual violence in many Indigenous communities is high. The belief that both authorities and mainstream sexual assault services will not respond appropriately has been identified as one amongst several issues that may impede Aboriginal women from seeking assistance. This project uses highly consultative and Indigenous specific methodology to identify strategies to meet the needs of Indigenous victim/survivors of sexual assault, and Indigenous and mainstream service providers, including training and education needs for service providers. The study focuses on the Metropolitan Melbourne area, East Gippsland and Barwon Region in Victoria, Australia.

Girls talk: group treatment and sexual abuse.
Kambourdis, Helen; Jevtic, Draga.
In: Home Truths: Stop Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence, a National Challenge Conference, Melbourne, September 2004: presentations. Melbourne, Vic: CASA Forum, 2004, 6p, Online only
A group program that involved young women, aged 13 - 17, with a history of sexual abuse is discussed. The paper looks at the aims of the group program, and provides a description, evaluation and outcomes of the program. The study highlighted the importance of survivors sharing their experiences.

Group treatment for sexually abused adolescent girls: perceptions of impact and usefulness.
Kambouridis, H; Jevtic, D
In: Lancaster, S. ed. Understanding children and families: psychology research at the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Brisbane, Qld: Australian Academic Press, 2002, p120-137, tables
After describing the common consequences of child sexual abuse, the authors consider the different forms of treatment and theoretical frameworks for dealing with them. Though they see group therapy as particularly appropriate for adolescents, they are concerned that this alone may not be sufficient to shift the entrenched negative self perceptions of young people who have been sexually abused, as children tend to create a defensive script to manage their affective experiences. The authors describe and evaluate the method and outcomes of a group program designed to help young female survivors of sexual abuse.

Healing on the inside. (PDF 28K)
Dawn Mead (2003), Is Prison Obsolete? Women in Prison Conference, Brisbane, November 2003

Homelessness and sexual assault: service profile.
Moss, Daniel; Tully, David
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.4 Oct 2004: 17-20, and Online
This article profiles SideStreet, a counselling service of UnitingCare Wesley Adelaide. Too often the effects of abuse are not addressed through young people's trajectory through homelessness.The experience of underlying trauma is the common theme that draws together young people who experience long-term homelessness rather than short-term crisis homelessness. What is often absent from the service response to these young people is any consistent and coordinated response to the effects of the abuse they were subjected to. Often service delivery models fail in combining practical assistance with effective responses to childhood trauma.

Implementation of the domestic violence screening project in a sexual assault service: an unexpected result.
Hall, G; Hately, R.
In: Practice and prevention: contemporary issues in adult sexual assault conference. Sydney, NSW: NSW Attorney-General's Department, Crime Prevention Division, 2003, tables, figures, Online only
On a global scale, violence is among the leading causes of death for people aged 15 - 44 and violence against women and girls is a major heath and human rights issue. The authors document current research on the relationship between domestic violence and sexual assault and discuss responses to violence against women in intimate relationships. They discuss the trial conducted by Northern Sydney Health, which implemented the domestic violence routine screening tool in several hospitals and services, and they explain why a sexual assault service got involved in routine screening for domestic violence.

Improving service and criminal justice responses to victims of sexual assault: a report of a state-based consultation with adult victims of sexual assault, services and agencies. (PDF 128K)
New South Wales. Violence Against Women Specialist Unit.
Ashfield, NSW: Violence Against Women Specialist Unit, Department of Community Services, 2006, 77p, tables, Online
This study of sexual assault victims' needs and experiences in NSW targeted individuals who reported a sexual assault to NSW services and or the police since 1995, and services and agencies that might assist victims of sexual assault. It focused on information provision to victims; access to services; take up of medical care; take up of victims' compensation; reporting to police, investigation and charging; the court process; and change to laws and or procedures.

Interpersonal violence services in Western Australia: politics, policies and practices.
Woodhead, M; Weatherill, P; Reid Boyd, E; Hopkins, L; Murray, S
Women Against Violence - An Australian Feminist Journal no.11 2001 - 2002: 16-21
The study on which this paper is based explored a range of agencies throughout Western Australia that provided services responding to interpersonal violence; in particular, services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and elder abuse. It sought, in part, to examine the perceived training needs of workers and how the theoretical frameworks underpinning service provision might influence service delivery at the individual, agency and broader societal level. The research highlighted that those services that most clearly held a feminist understanding of interpersonal violence were also those services that were aware of experiencing the most difficulty in achieving a 'fit' between ideology and practice. (Journal abstract)

It's still not my shame: adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse report. (PDF 468K)
Holden, T
Adelaide, SA: Women's Health Statewide, Women and Children's Hospital, 2002, 133p, Online
In order to identify the current service needs of adult survivors of child sexual abuse and the organisational needs of workers and managers who provided services to adult survivors, semi-structured interviews were conducted with survivor groups, service providers and managers throughout metropolitan and country South Australia. This report on the project outlines the background and methodology, and sets out survivor groups feedback and associated recommendations; service provider feedback and associated recommendations; manager feedback and associated recommendations; and a strategic plan for recommendations.

Judging rape: public attitudes and sentencing.
Clark, Haley.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.14 Jun 2007: 17-25, and Online
This article discusses public attitudes towards sexual assault, sentencing, perceptions of seriousness and the influence of myths and stereotypes. Public concerns surrounding perceived leniency of sentences for sexual offenders are presented together with an overview of recent developments in sentencing policy around Australia and statistics on current sentencing practice. Attitudes towards sexual assault and the role that rape myths play in judgments of offence seriousness and sentencing are then considered. Finally, a small study that the author conducted in 2002 which examined the extent to which rape myths may influence evaluations of rape seriousness and sentencing is presented. (Author abstract, edited)

Lack of data means lack of action: a clinical examination of access to health services for women with disabilities. (Word 74K)
Salthouse, Sue; Howe, Keran.
In: HREOC Forum on Health Access, Sydney, 28 May 2004. Sydney, NSW: Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, 2004, 15p, Online only (MS Word 74K)
The status of women with disabilities and their access to preventative screening services are discussed in this paper. It explores the impact of structural inequality on health, the impact of structural inequality on attitudes of health professionals, the impact on a woman's health of the medicalisation of disability, lack of data, breast cancer screening, cervical cancer screening, and other systemic barriers for women with disabilities, including physical access, lack of access to information, costs, and health care processes.

Lawyers from the firm Maurice Blackburn Cashman have established a specialist Sexual Assault Unit: service profile.
Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault; Waller, Vivian.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.6 Apr 2005: 24-26, and Online
This article profiles the "Sexual Assault Unit" at the law firm Maurice Blackburn Cashman, with an interview with Vivian Waller, the manager of the Unit. The Unit is the first of its kind in Australia dedicated to helping victims of sexual and physical assault make a civil claim for financial compensation against the person who abused them.

Making good: a service response to women dealing with unplanned pregnancy and abortion as a result of sexual assault.
Hardiman, Annarella.
Women Against Violence: An Australian Feminist Journal no.19 2007: 46-53
The stress suffered by a woman who is pregnant as a result of sexual assault can be significantly compounded by the combination of the two events. The initial responses she receives from health professionals can have a critical impact on how she copes. This article seeks to define good practice by outlining the philosophical, professional and practical responses received by women using services relating to unplanned pregnancy and abortion from the Pregnancy Advisory Service at the Royal Women's Hospital in Melbourne. It discusses some barriers faced by women seeking abortion services, and describes the model developed by the Pregnancy Advisory Service to respond to women who have experienced violence and who are dealing with an unplanned pregnancy.

Male survivors of sexual assault.
Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault; Bavinton, Tim
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.2 Nov 2003: 15-18, and Online (74K)
This article presents an interview with Tim Bavinton, Coordinator of the Service Assisting Male Survivors of Sexual Assault (SAMSSA), in which he discusses working with male victim/ survivors of sexual assault. It includes development of the service and the framework within which it operates; key issues facing male victim/ survivors of sexual assault, including results from the SAMSSA Needs Assessment Survey in which men list the impact and effects sexual violence has had in their lives; how needs of male victim/ survivors differ to those of women; and the level of recognition that men can be victims of sexual assault.

Male survivors of sexual assault and rape.
Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2006, 8p, table (ACSSA wrap no.2)
The sexual abuse of males is underrepresented in sexual abuse literature, statistics and programs. Current research about male survivors of sexual assault and rape is summarised in this paper. The paper discusses definitions, theoretical perspectives, reporting, prevalence and incidence reports, victim characteristics and risk factors, impact on survivors, treatment options, policy initiatives, and service responses and limitations.

Management of acute adult sexual assault.
Mein, J K; Palmer, C M; Shand, M C; Templeton, D J; Parekh, V; Mobbs, M; Haig, K; Huffam, S E; Young, L
Medical Journal of Australia v.178 no.5 Mar 2003: 226-230, tables, figures, and Online
An estimated 13 percent of women and 3 percent of men worldwide report sexual assault in their lifetime. This article outlines the management of adult sexual assault and notes that although managing sexual assault may appear daunting, some victims want medical care only. The authors state that after disclosure, forensic assessment should be discussed. If a complaint to the police is possible, give the first dose of emergency contraception if required, and refer for forensic assessment. If medical care only is desired, determine the timing and type of assault and current contraception, manage general and genital injuries and perform relevant tests. After unprotected vaginal rape, offer emergency contraception, chlamydia prophylaxis and vaccination against hepatitis B virus. Counselling is important for all victims of sexual assault, as psychosocial consequences are more common than physical injuries. Management by a sympathetic, non-judgemental health practitioner helps the victim to regain control. (Journal abstract, edited)

Management of the whole family when intimate partner violence is present: guidelines for general practitioners in Victoria. (PDF 232K)
Victorian Community Council on Crime and Violence.
Melbourne, Vic: Department of Justice, 2006, 9p
These guidelines are designed to help Victorian general practitioners provide whole of family care when managing patients experiencing intimate partner violence. The guidelines cover identification and management of victims and offenders and other members of the family, including children, and are concerned with safety and confidentiality.

Medical Responses to Adults Who Have Experienced Sexual Assault: An interactive educational module for doctors.
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG). (Editor: Liz Olle).
Melbourne, Victoria; The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), 2004, 156 p and Online
This is a comprehensive interactive training handbook with questions and case studies designed for the training and professional development of General Medical Practioners and specialists in the care of patients who have been sexually assaulted.

No longer silent - a study of women's help-seeking decisions and service responses to sexual assault.
Lievore, D.
Canberra, ACT: Australian Institute of Criminology for the Australian Government's Office for Women, 2005, 167p
This is a qualitative study of victim/survivor decision-making and coordinated responses to adult sexual assault. It address gaps in knowledge about the social and personal contingencies that influence victim/survivors' help-seeking behaviour and their decisions in respect of the criminal justice system and on the efficacy of coordinated service responses to sexual assault.

Onset, persistence, and versatility of offending amongst adult males convicted of sexual offenses against children.
Smallbone, Stephen W; Wortley, Richard K
Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment v.16 no.4 October 2004: 285-298
Official sexual and nonsexual offence histories and confidential self-report data on sexual offending were obtained on 207 adult males serving sentences for sexual offences against children. The mean self-reported age when offenders first had sexual contact with a child was 32.2 years. The mean age at first conviction for any offence was 30.5 years, and the mean age at first conviction for a sexual offence was 37.3 years. ANCOVA revealed a systematic pattern of onset with first convictions for any offence preceding first sexual contact with a child. Taken together, results indicate that, in general, adult child molesters (a) begin sexual offending in their 30s, (b) have already become involved in nonsexual crime by the time they first have sexual contact with a child, (c) are criminally versatile, and (d) vary considerably in their persistence with respect to both sexual and nonsexual offending.

Pathways: how women leave violent men. (PDF 188K)
Mulroney, J.
Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse Newsletter no.13 Jan 2003: 1-4 and Online
The Pathways report, written by Shirley Patton for Women Tasmania, is based on interviews with women about their experience of family violence, its impact on them and their children, and how they left the relationship. In her review of the report the author summarises its main findings and highlights the importance it places on the need for workers in this area to focus on how women leave violent situations. She outlines the demographic details of the participants involved in the study, the type of abuse they experienced and its impact, the various pathways the participants took to leave the violence, and the barriers they had to overcome in order to leave. She summarises the report's recommendations.

Preventing prisoner rape (SA).
Denborough, David; Boyd, Cameron.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.14 Jun 2007: 26-32, and Online
In this interview, David Denborough, of the Preventing Prisoner Rape Project in South Australia, discusses the history and work of the Project and what is known about sexual assault in Australian prisons. Though sexual assault in prisons is widespread, there are societal attitudes and myths that consider it is somehow deserved or inevitable. The Project aims to support male prisoners who have been assaulted and provide resources to prison workers in their prevention and intervention work. Ideas for community support groups and programs working with female prisoners are also discussed.

Primary protective behaviours.
Protective Behaviours Consultancy Group of NSW.
Waterloo, NSW: Protective Behaviours Consultancy Group of NSW, revised edition 2004, 141p, figures
This is a resource for teachers and trainers in primary schools. It contains teaching and learning activities that are designed to meet the outcomes of the National and relevant state curriculums. Student worksheets are prepared in six languages. This is an important resource in the preparation of programs to help children and young people live safely.

Prisoner rape support package: addressing sexual assault in men's prisons. (PDF 188K)
Denborough, David.
International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work no.2 2005: 29-37
This support package aims to provide assistance to men who have been raped or sexually assaulted in prison. It includes: information on rape in Australian prisons; a case study of prisoner rape survival; information on the physical and psychological effects of rape, including self blame, despair and confusion about sexuality; ways in which people resist and survive prisoner rape; information on childhood sexual abuse and its relevance to sexual assault in prison.

Protective behaviours: About Domestic Violence.
Protective Behaviours Consultancy Group of New South Wales.
Waterloo, NSW: Protective Behaviours Consultancy Group of New South Wales, 2004, 74p, ill.
This resource is based on the Protective Behaviours Program which seeks to address issues of violence and abuse in a range of situations. This Resource has been developed to address issues of domestic violence by addressing issues of personal safety and with the aim of empowering women and children to take a stance against violence. The first section includes activities for adults on issues of domestic violence with an emphasis on the needs of women. The second section includes activities for children.

Protocol: a coordinated approach to better respond to drug facilitated sexual assault in Darwin urban.
Northern Territory. Women's Health Strategy Unit
Darwin, NT: Women's Health Strategy Unit, Territory Health Services, 2004, 29p, Online
Developed as part of a broader project, the first stage of which was an awareness raising campaign, 'Watch Your Drink, Yourself and Your Friend', this protocol has been developed to ensure all victims of drug-facilitated sexual assault receive appropriate treatment and referrals as required; and to improve the current services provided to victims/survivors of drug-facilitated sexual assault by promoting better understanding of the roles and responsibilities of each service provider, which results in appropriate referrals of victims/survivors. The protocol includes information about the extent of the problem of drink spiking, and, as an appendix, a Literature review on drug facilitated sexual assault by Liz Kasteel.

Real rape: help for women sexually assaulted by male partners.
McOrmond-Plummer, Louise.
DVIRC Quarterly no.4 Summer 2006: 11-15
Women who are raped by their partners are often not recognised as victims of a crime. This article describes the author's experiences of sexual assault by a partner, and the impact of common myths that this is not 'real' rape. The article summarises the research on the prevalence of partner rape, outlines some of the problems with current service responses, and describes a book the author wrote for women raped by partners. (Journal abstract, edited)

Reframing responses: improving service provision to women survivors of child sexual abuse who experience mental health problems. (PDF 3.4M)
O'Brien, Louise; Henderson, Corinne.
Auseinetter no.27 no.2 Nov 2006: 20-21, and Online (whole issue)
The Reframing Responses project aimed to improve services to female survivors of childhood sexual abuse who experience mental health problems. This article summarises the research on the service needs and service usage of these women, explains the research study design and summarises the study recommendations.

Repeat sexual victimisation among an offender sample: implications for pathways and prevention.
Mazerolle, Paul; Legosz, Margot; Miceski, Elena; Sanderson, Jennifer.
In: France, A. and Homel, R. eds. Pathways and crime prevention: theory, policy and practice. Cullompton, Devon, UK: Willan Publishing, 2007, p146-171
Using data from a study of adults serving non custodial sentences in Queensland, this chapter explores the effects of sexual victimisation on offenders. High levels of sexual victimisation were found among this group, particularly among women, and a high degree of continuity of victimisation from childhood to adulthood. After controlling for individual and lifestyle factors, the analysis shows that child sexual abuse directly affects the risk of adult sexual victimisation. This relationship is not mediated through alcohol and drug abuse and relationship problems, although these factors proved salient predictors of sexual victimisation. The major implications for prevention are discussed; that is, to reduce the incidence of childhood sexual victimisation and to address the mental health and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of re victimisation for adults.

Research Project: ARC Linkage 2005-2008: Promoting ethical non-violent relationships of young women and men.
Carmody , Moira.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.9 Nov 2005: 20, and Online
This article reviews the research project: ARC Linkage 2005-2008, Promoting ethical non-violent relationships of young women and men, contucted in NSW. The origin of this research is based on five years of researching and critiquing anti-violence education and social policy to prevent sexual violence within relationships. The author discovered a number of important implications of the way anti-rape education is currently being conceptualised and developed. The out comes of the research together with existing published research and practice experience will be used to develop a training package that will be delivered by educators who will be trained and supported by the project to run the program with young people. A key feature of the project is the capacity building of youth educators to deliver education based on increasing the skills of young people to negotiate sexual intimacy within a framework of sexual ethics and non-violence.

Researching family violence. (PDF 774K)
Winter, Rosmarie.
Hobart, Tas: Tasmanian Institute of Law Enforcement Studies, University of Tasmania, 2005, 12p, tables (TILES briefing paper no.2), and Online
New family violence legislation was announced in Tasmania in 2005. This paper summarises the changes and the recent research on family violence. The Safe at Home initiative promotes a pro arrest, pro prosecution and pro interventionist approach to family violence and enables victims to access an expanded range of services. The paper looks at the following aspects of Safe at home: the expansion of the use of risk assessment screening tools; reporting issues; mandatory reporting; and risk and surveillance.

Respond SA, for adult victim/survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Sloan, Jodie; Suchting, Mailin.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.11 May 2006: 27-34, and Online
Respond SA is a new service for adult survivors of childhood sexual assault. In this interview, the manager of Respond SA and a manager at Relationships Australia discuss: the establishment of Respond SA and its key aims and objectives; the service delivery frameworks and models that were used in the development of Respond SA; why survivors of childhood sexual abuse have been under served; the specific needs of adult survivors; whether Respond SA could be modelled in other areas of Australia; the research that is needed concerning the effects of childhood sexual abuse; the services that Respond SA offers; Respond SA's participation in the workforce the success of Respond SA so far. 

Responding to sexual assault and promoting sexual safety within Queensland Health inpatient mental health services: guidelines to inform the development of local area policy and procedures for responding to sexual assault and promoting sexual safetly within Queensland Health acute care, extended treatment and medium and high secure inpatient mental health services.
Queensland Health
Brisbane, Qld: Queensland Health, 2004, 29p, figures
These guidelines are intended to assist workers and consumers in the mental health, sexual assault and disability sectors in Queensland. They provide a framework for the development of local area policy and procedures to address issues relating to sexual assault and sexual safety within Queensland Health acute care, extended treatment and medium and high secure inpatient mental health services. The guidelines cover: gender, mental illness and sexual violence; sexual assault; responding to a report of recent sexual assault; past sexual assault and abuse; sexual harassment; sexual safety; risk assessment; assessment vulnerability; identifying and responding to sexually disinhibited behaviours; policies regarding sexual relationships; sexual relationships between staff and clients; impaired capacity; clients under 16 years; diverse needs; safety in design of mental health services; follow up support; confidentiality and documentation; staff support and education; education for clients and family members; services access, availability and promotion; and evaluation.

Respect and Responsibility - Creating a safe and inclusive environment for women at all levels of Australian Football. (PDF 400K)
Demetriou, Andrew.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Football League, 2005, 15p
This AFL policy was developed in conjunction with the Victorian Government’s Statewide Committee to Reduce Sexual Assault and Office of Women’s Policy. The AFL Commission, with the support of the 16 AFL Clubs, adopted this policy to address the issues of sexual harassment, sexual discrimination and violence towards women. In light of the significant health impacts of violence perpetrated against women, a special partnership was established with VicHealth to implement this policy strategy. This policy will be written into AFL rules to require compliance by everyone bound by the rules without diminishing in any way the ultimate responsibility of every individual to behave in an appropriate manner in accordance with the laws of the land. This policy is based on recommendations by a Working Group established by the AFL in June, 2004 after allegations of sexual assault were made against AFL footballers.

Ripple effects of sexual assault.
Morrison, Zoe; Quadara, Antonia; Boyd, Cameron.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2007, 31p (ACSSA issues no.7), and Online
The effects of sexual assault are wide reaching. As well as the profound effects of sexual assault on victim / survivors, a victim / survivor's family members and friends, workers in the sexual assault field, and society as a whole are affected by sexual assault in detrimental and still under recognised ways. This paper uses the term 'ripple effects' as a metaphor to describe the effects and costs of sexual assault on a victim / survivor's personal and professional networks, and on the society within which they exist. It concentrates mostly on the ripple effects of the sexual assault of adults and is based on the findings of a literature review.

Routine screening for domestic violence in health services. (PDF 141K)
Laing, Lesley.
Kensington, NSW: Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse, University of New South Wales, 2003, 17p, (Topic paper), Online
The thesis of this paper is that whether domestic violence is identified by routine enquiry or by other approaches to case- finding, it is essential that health care providers are resourced through training, policies and protocols to respond in ways which have been identified by survivors as helpful and empowering. The paper provides a review of the literature in order to examine the case for routine screening; arguments and cautions against routine screening; and screening in Australian health services.

Service profile: Incest Survivors' Association (Western Australia).
Basham, Sandra.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.8 Jun 2005: 26-30, and Online
The Incest Survivors' Association in Perth provides counselling for adolescent and adult survivors of incest and other child sexual assault. In this profile of the organisation, the following are discussed: the origins of the organisation; the philosophy of the service and how it differs from mainstream sexual assault services; issues specific to survivors of childhood sexual assault; the importance of having a separate service for adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse; the services the organisation offers; the public conception of childhood sexual assault; challenges the service faces; and lessons learned. 

Services for victim/survivors of sexual assault: identifying needs, interventions and provision of services in Australia.
Astbury, Jill.
Melbourne, Vic: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2006, 10p (ACSSA issues no.6), Online
The international and national literature on sexual assault services that address the needs of victim survivors is summarised. The paper focuses on the perceived needs of victim survivors, existing interventions that are perceived to address these needs, which are mostly therapeutic or counselling interventions, and data on their effectiveness. It summarises data on the services that currently provide these interventions, looking at patterns of service usage, barriers to using these services, and the characteristics of these services that victim survivors find particularly valuable. The paper then makes recommendations for primary health care providers working with victim survivors of sexual assault.

Severed connections: an exploration of the impact of imprisonment on women's familial and social connectedness. (PDF 1.81M)
Goulding, Dot.
Murdoch, WA: Centre for Social and Community Research, Murdoch University, 2004, 59p, illus, Online
This study was a joint project between Ruah Women's Support Service, the Social Justice Commission of the Uniting Church of Australia and the Centre for Social and Community Research, Murdoch University. The aim of the project was to explore the experiences of women in prison and their broader connections with society and family. The research shows that, although coming from vastly different backgrounds, the women interviewed share certain common experiences including histories of abusive relationships and mental illness. The women, many of whom are parents or caregivers, also share strong concerns regarding their ability to reconnect with children, family and community upon release.

Sexual assault and Indigenous communities.
Greer, P.
In: Practice and prevention: contemporary issues in adult sexual assault conference. Sydney, NSW: NSW Attorney-General's Department, Crime Prevention Division, 2003, Online only
The author documents the growing awareness of the prevalence of rape in Aboriginal communities across Australia from the 1980s until the 1990s, and the work being done to address the problem. She states her amazement that there is still inadequate information about the topic to work with and emphasises the need to act now to prevent the continuation of the extremely high levels of violence being inflicted on Aboriginal women and children.

Sexual assault: the law, your rights. (PDF 529K)
McCulloch, Jude; Momot, Chris.
Melbourne, Vic: Victoria Legal Aid, 3rd ed., 2004, 28p, and Online
The legal rights and options in Victoria for victims of sexual assault who are over the age of sixteen are presented in this booklet. A fictional case study is used throughout to explain different situations. The booklet covers the following topics: What is sexual assault?; Getting support; Deciding whether to report to the police; Prosecutions; Intervention orders; Going to court; Compensation and financial assistance. It concludes with a glossary of the legal terms used and a list of sexual assault service agencies.

Sexual Assault Resource Centre: Client mental health survey.
Stone, Judy; Clifton, Ben.
Aware: Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault Newsletter no.9 Nov 2005: 12-15, and Online
Significant research has been done on the correlation between child sexual abuse and mental health problems, both in Australia and overseas. Whilst statistics vary, the findings generally indicate a high correlation between child sexual abuse and mental ill health. The Sexual Assault Resource Centre (SARC) in Western Australia undertook a cross-sectional study of clients who attended the service following a recent sexual assault or because of past sexual assault and/or sexual abuse issues. Information was collected on whether clients had a mental health diagnosis and/or drug and alcohol problem. The results indicated high rates of depression and drug and alcohol use problems. The greatest prevalence of mental health problems and drug and alcohol use was evident in clients who had experienced both child sexual abuse and sexual assault.

Sneaking up on traumatic memory: the use of creative metaphors with child sexual assault.
Morwood, S
Psychotherapy in Australia v.8 no.4 Aug 2002: 40-44
To revisit or not to revisit - that is the dilemma facing trauma counsellors, especially when children are concerned. No one likes talking, about sexual assault, domestic violence, or traumatic loss, but how does one help a hurting child to move forward without talking about their hurt? In this article the author describes a technique that walks a middle path between the extremes of avoidance and immersion that characterize exposure therapy. (Journal abstract)

Social work practice in mental health.
Bland, Robert.
In: Alston, Margaret and McKinnon,Jennifer eds. Social work: fields of practice. South Melbourne, Vic: Oxford University Press, 2nd ed., 2005, p119-130
Social work practice in mental health settings occurs at three levels: social context, which is concerned with the social environment of the individual; social consequences, which is concerned with the impact of mental illness on the individual, the family and personal relationships, and the community; and social justice, which is concerned with issues of discrimination and rights. This chapter discusses the policy context for practice, the national mental health plans, consumer and carer issues, the need for an effective model for practice, welfare dimensions of practice in mental illness, and practice in a multidisciplinary setting. It also considers ethical issues for practice, including social control and balancing the needs of consumers and family members.

Speaking Out.
Central Coast Community Women's Health Centre Ltd.
NSW:Central Coast Community Women's Health Centre, 2004, 1 video (43 min), 1 booket/discussion guide
The journeys of five adult survivors of child sexual abuse are followed as the program takes the audience through processes of counselling and healing. The film uses song, dialogue and flashback scenes to give voice to the stories, and identifies ways survivors can seek support through friends, counsellors and group work. The project aims to raise community awareness of child sexual abuse and encourage survivors to seek support and assistance.

Staying Home Leaving Violence: Promoting choices for women leaving abusive partners. (PDF 816K)
Edwards, R.
Sydney, NSW: Australian Domestic and Family Violence Clearinghouse 2004, 60p
This research report explores how women leaving domestic violence relationships can remain in thier own homes with their children while the violent partner is removed from the home. The study was conducted over 15 months from October 2002 to December 2003. Twenty nine women participated in face-to-face 'in depth' interviews for this research. On leaving a domestic violence relationship, of the total twenty-nine women, nine remained in their home and twenty left their home.

Stop it ... before it starts! A program for adolescents: building positive relationships and avoiding violent ones.
Jacobs, Tanya; McGrath, Mina
Darwin, NT: Office of Women's Policy, Northern Territory Government, 2004, 130p, illus.
Designed for delivery by organisations as diverse as schools, Indigenous communities, non-government organisations, and community-based organisations, this training package provides a series of modules which target general groups, and Indigenous groups (comprising Indigenous participants only). The modules cover information about violent relationships; learning about healthy relationships; and applying the information and learning to a real life scenario.

Support groups for people affected by family violence - a key element of a coordinated response.
Southwell, Jenni.
Melbourne, Vic: Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre (DVIRC), 1st ed., 2004, 47p.
This report describes a broader view that the Victorian Government can take in it's approach to family violence. The critical role of support groups for victims of violence in providing safety, empowerment and for mental health is emphasised.

Support groups, online bulletin boards and chat rooms.
McKenzie, M
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.4 Summer 2002: 15-17
A range of support groups exists for people who have experienced domestic violence or sexual assault. The author lists and describes the support offered by some groups, professionally facilitated or not. She focuses on the emergence of online support in particular, and discusses the benefits of anonymity provided by online support services.

Surviving rape: a handbook about rape for survivors, family, friends and workers.
NSW Rape Crisis Centre
Redfern, NSW: Redfern Legal Centre Publishing, 4th ed., 2002, 178p, figures
This is the fourth edition of this publication which aims to expose the myths surrounding rape and to provide support and information for survivors, family, friends and people who work in the area. Included are the most recent developments in the law, court procedures, information on where to get help and reporting to the police, medical treatment and forensic evidence, going to court, compensation, making a complaint, sexual abuse of children, strategies for safety, repercussions for family and friends and where to go for help.

The evidence for sexual assault counselling with children. (Word 216K)
Palmer, M; Lamb, R; Katakouzinos, N
In: What Works? Evidence Based Practice in Child and Family Services - ACWA Conference, September 2002, proceedings. Bondi Beach, NSW: Association of Childrens Welfare Agencies, 2002, 6p, figures, Online only
The concept of Evidence Based Practice has prompted much discussion and questioning of the effectiveness of counselling or therapy in relation to children who have experienced sexual assault. This paper reflects on the research literature in relation to child sexual assault treatment outcomes and the practice experience of The Children's Hospital at Westmead Child Protection Unit. Sexual abuse outcome literature and treatment effectiveness literature demonstrates few consistent relationships between sexual abuse events and outcomes or effects for children. Clinical experience demonstrates a variety of meanings attributed to events by children and their care givers which need to be understood in the context of each family. To accommodate both of these issues, assessment and treatment programs for children who have experienced abuse need to be flexible and responsive to the needs and experiences of individual children and their families. Indications are that current concepts of evidence, particularly when drawn from models of evidence based medicine are inadequate to the complexities of counselling practice. The implications for service delivery and developing relevant clinical evidence to support accountable and effective practice are discussed. (Author abstract, edited)

The 'fair skinned' children of Sister Kate's: negotiating for the past and future.
McGlade, Hannah.
Australian Feminist Law Journal v.26 Jun 2007: 31-46
Many of the stolen generations in Western Australia were removed from their families and placed in the Sister Kate's Homes, officially established as homes for 'quarter caste' or 'nearly white' children. This paper documents the negotiations between the Sister Kate's Home Kids, a group of Aboriginal women formerly resident in the Homes, and the Uniting Church in Western Australia, the current owner of the Homes. Several cases seeking redress for the removal of members of the stolen generation have been litigated in Australia, but none has been upheld in the courts. The physical, emotional and sexual abuse suffered by Aboriginal children at the Sister Kate's Homes is described as typifying the experiences of the stolen generations. The negotiations with the Uniting Church have focused on redress programs to promote healing and reconciliation, and on a leasehold arrangement for a site to establish an aged care facility for older Sister Kate's Home Kids members. No agreement has been reached. The paper emphasises the issue of human rights for the stolen generations, the agreements brokered by the Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission to recognise and compensate First Nation survivors of the Indian Residential Schools, and the lack of political recognition, legal remedies or other reparations in Australia.

The future of family violence prevention networks.
Munzel, Cheryl.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.2 winter edition 2005: 27-28
The Family violence prevention program in Victoria is due to expire in September 2005, leading to fears that funding may be cut to local family violence prevention networks. The author writes in this article about the role networkers play in coordinating regional prevention work.

The third wave: the development of sexual assault services for male victims.
Worth, C
In: Practice and prevention: contemporary issues in adult sexual assault conference. Sydney, NSW: NSW Attorney-General's Department, Crime Prevention Division, 2003, Online only
The author discusses the development of services for male victims of sexual assault in Victoria, the history of sexual assault services in general, and the evolution of the South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault (SECASA) service for males. She considers the argument for placing male victim services in mainstream sexual assault centres rather than centres run by men and discusses the difficulties that arise when working with this group of victims.

Triple disadvantage - out of sight, out of mind: violence against women with disabilities project. (PDF 156K)
Jennings, Chris.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre, 2003.

Untangling the Web - a resource for people with mental illness who are survivors of sexual abuse.
Seifert, Diane; Neild, Julie.
Queensland: Health Unit, Queensland Health, 1st ed.,2004 24p, , Online
This is a booklet for people with mental illness who are survivors of sexual abuse. Though the use of images, text and narrative stories it provides initial information, education and self help tasks on sexual assault for people suffering from mental illnesss.

Victims of crime: plea bargains, compensation, victim impact statements and support services.
Rowena Johns (2002), NSW Parliament Briefing Paper 10/2002

Violence in society: New Zealand perspectives.
Connolly, M, ed..
Christchurch, NZ: Te Awatea Press, ist ed., 2004, p167
The ways in which the New Zealand criminal justice and service providers respond to interpersonal violence are examined in this book. Research and practice in the areas of child abuse and protection, youth violence, family violence and violence in intimate relationships and criminal justice are adressed. Eleven authors have contributed to this publication.

What a smile can hide: a report on the study of violence against women during pregnancy. (PDF 1.8M)
Walsh, Deborah; Weeks, Wendy.
Melbourne, VIC: The Royal Women's Hospital, 2004, 176p, and Online
This report examines the estent, level and nature of violence against women during pregnancy. Research on evaluating programs that routinely screen women in antenatal care has been emphasised. Strategies for intervention are recommended as research in this area in Australia is limited. It is suggested that physical violence can contribute to a number of complications during pregnancies and other health risks. Most women who reported violence during pregnancy suffered alone and in silence.

When a man is raped: a survival guide: information for men who have been raped, parents, partners, spouses and friends. (PDF 712K)
Roberts, M.
Parramatta, NSW: Education Centre Against Violence, 2002, 56p, and Online
This booklet is designed for men who have been raped, and family and friends of men who have been raped. It aims to increase understanding of the rape of males through presenting facts about the rape of men, facts about offenders, common reactions men experience after rape and unique issues they face. The booklet contains information about what to do if you have been raped, safety issues, medical care, reporting the crime to the police, counselling and financial assistance. For people close to a male survivor of rape the booklet provides information about how family and friends can support the man and assist him to recover. Further reading and where to get help in NSW is also included.

Where is care in the country? Let's provide rural victim survivors of sexual assault with after hours crisis care.
Parkinson, Debra.
Wangaratta, Vic: Upper Murray Centre Against Sexual Assault, and Jigsaw Research, 2007, 53p
Using a case study approach, this research investigates the access to support services, levels of care and advocacy, and legal outcomes for six women rape victims. Three of the women had access to a crisis care unit in Melbourne, whereas the three women from the Hume Region of Victoria did not. The findings show that the three rural women received less satisfactory medical, forensic, legal and emotional support. Victoria currently has four rural crisis care units. The report concludes that many more are needed so that people who have suffered sexual assault can receive physical treatment, emotional support and advocacy services all in the one place at the one time. 

Women helping mothers helping children: a resource for working with mothers and their children who have lived with domestic and family violence. (PDF 339K)
Coalition Caring for Kids.
Brisbane, Qld: Coalition Caring for Kids, 2007, 160p, figures, Online
The effects of living within or leaving a violent and abusive relationship can increase the difficulties of parenting for mothers. This resource has been prepared to provide information for family workers, mothers and the wider community. It is comprised of the following sections: An introduction to domestic and family violence, compiled by the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Service; Domestic violence and children, compiled by Kim Cleverly; Working with women in their roles as mothers, compiled by Catherine Bessant; Parenting after separation: helping survivors of domestic violence, compiled by Jane Phelan; Mother's book. 

Women's outrage and the pressure to forgive: working with survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Verco, J
International Journal of Narrative Therapy and Community Work no.1 2002: 23-27
Although forgiveness is a strong part of Christian culture and mental health practice, and is often emphasised as part of the healing process for victims of sexual abuse, the author believes that a requirement to forgive can be oppressive. She is concerned that for women in particular, who often bear the blame, self-blame and guilt for childhood abuse, forgiving the perpetrator may stand in the way of the woman who needs first to recognise feelings of outrage about what happened to her. She believes that justifiable outrage is often necessary in order for women to break free of self-blame and self-loathing, to stop seeing themselves as victim and to start believing in their ability to care for themselves.

Working with adolescents in the education system to prevent sexual assault.
Keel, Monique.
Family Matters no.71 Winter 2005: 36-39
The high rates of sexual assault experienced by young people suggest a need for prevention initiatives to be developed and focused on adolescents. This paper discusses current best practice approaches to prevention with a focus on schools based programs. The author reflects on past sexual assault prevention initiatives with young women and men, and considers what direction future initiatives might take, including proposed policy changes. As well as a review of what is considered best practice sexual assault prevention in schools, an outline of two programs is provided: one run by the Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA) in Victoria and one run by SHine in South Australia.

Working with older women: resources and standards for responding to current or past violence.
Duncan, J
Carlton, Vic: CASA House Centre Against Sexual Assault, 2002, 67p plus 1 CD-ROM
This resource manual is designed for workers in domestic violence and sexual assault services who work with older women victim / survivors. The aim of the manual is to increase older women's access to support services. Resource materials and standards of practice are combined in the manual to be used as a guide for workers' professional development and training, and for people wanting to conduct activities for older women who have experienced violence. Sections in the manual are: introduction to the older women and safety project; older women - identities, cultures and perceptions; violence against older women; challenging ageism; access and equity standards of practice; and resources including source material.

Working with Young Women who Self-harm: A resource for workers
McGuire, Christy; Fernandez, Erica;.
Camp Hill, QLD. Zig Zag Young Women's Resource Centre Inc. 2004, 35p
This is a resource for those working with young women who self harm. It explores the use of mindfulness in supporting young women who self-harm, in a group context and outlines the understanding that young women have of self harm and how it is used in recovery from sexual assault. Concepts for workers supporting young women who self-harm are discussed and guidelines for the group setting are presented.

Young people's views on developing effective websites: learnings form Bursting the Bubble.com.
McKenzie,Mandy.
Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre Newsletter no.2 winter edition 2005: 24-26
This article summarises the results of the external evaluation report on the DVIRC's website 'Bursting the bubble', a website aimed at teenagers experiencing family violence. The report also contained recommendations for other organisations developing websites for young people.

International publications

A national protocol for sexual assault medical forensic examinations - adults/adolescents. (PDF 1.8M)
United States Dept of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, 2004
This first National Protocol for Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations provides detailed guidelines for criminal justice and health care practitioners in responding to the immediate needs of sexual assault victims.

An impact evaluation of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program. (PDF 6.1M)
Cameron S. Crandall and Deborah Helitzer (2003), US Department of Justice
The purpose of this evaluation was to determine the impact of SANE services on four areas:
1- healthcare, 2- victim services, 3- law enforcement and 4- prosecution.The data strongly suggest that a SANE unit greatly enhances the healthcare quality of women who have been sexuaIly assaulted, improves the quality of forensic evidence, improves law enforcement's ability to collect information and to file charges, and increases the likelihood of successful prosecution.

Current Trends in Psychological Assessment and Treatment Approaches for Survivors of Sexual Trauma
Yuan, Nicole P.; Koss, Mary P. and Mirto Stone, Mirto. 2006.
This document provides a review and critique of current trends in mental health assessment and treatment for sexual trauma survivors with an emphasis on early intervention. Treatment approaches are restricted to psychotherapy.

Domestic violence screening and intervention in medical and mental healthcare setting.
Hamberger, L. Kevin. and Phelan, Mary Beth.
New York : Springer Publishing, c2004, xi, 339 p. ; 24 cm
"This book reviews the literature on screening, identification, intervention and prevention of partner violence across healthcare specialties and disciplines to benefit the development of effective domestic violence prevention programs. Primary care, psychiatric and mental health care, emergency department settings as well as subspecialties such as emergency rooms, ophthalmology, and infectious diseases are considered."--BOOK JACKET

Forensic nursing: an option for improving responses to reported rape and sexual assault. (PDF 72K)
Linda Regan, Jo Lovett and Liz Kelly (2004), Home Office Development and Practice Report 31
This document aims to provide concise guidance for a range professionals who have a role in commissioning, organising or directly providing forensic examinations for those who have reported a rape or sexual assault. The report, which is based upon research findings, concludes that forensic nursing can provide a cost-effective option to: address delays in the provision of forensic examinations; increase the availability of female forensic examiners; and also has potential to enhance professional standards.

Maze of injustice: the failure to protect indigenous women from sexual violence in the USA. (PDF 3.3M)
Amnesty International
London : Amnesty International, 2007

Men's violence against women : theory, research, and activism.
Kilmartin, Christopher; Julie Allison. Mahwah, NJ : Lawrence Erlbaum Assoc., 2007

Meeting the Needs of Prison Rape Victims
Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape. 2006.
This guide is intended to support rape crisis counselors and advocates in providing services to victims of prison rape. To that end, the guide includes an overview of the problem of prison rape, outreach strategies, ethical discussions, and things to keep in mind when working in a prison setting.

Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
Wolfe, David A. Ph.D. and Jaffe, Peter G. Ph.D.
National Online Resource Center on Violence Against Women 2003
This VAWnet document summarizes the development of prevention initiatives related to domestic violence and sexual assault. It points out trends, promising developments, and suggestions for prevention strategies.

Sexual Assault Referral Centres: developing good practice and maximising potentials. (PDF 460K)
Jo Lovett, Linda Regan and Liz Kelly (2004), Home Office Research Study 285
This report focuses on the contribution of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), and provides a valuable insight into the type of services that are needed to support victims in the aftermath of a traumatic crime such as rape.

Sexual violence in the lives of youth.
The prevention researcher, vol. 14, no. 2 April 2007

Standards for victim assistance programs and providers. (PDF 440K)
Dana DeHart (2003), Center for Child and Family Studies, University of South Carolina
This kit, compiled by the National Victim Assistance Standards Consortium, includes program, competency, and ethical standards for victim assistance providers; a compendium of promising practices in professional development; directories of credentialing rograms and related standards; and a list of professional development resources.

The Men's Program : a peer education guide to rape prevention.
Foubert, John.
New York : Routledge, 2005, xi, 177 p. ; 29 cm.
"This manual is the centerpiece of an all-male peer education program designed to challenge misogynistic and masculine stereotypes about sexual assault that can indirectly contribute to abuse, violence, and rape. The Men's Program focuses on empowering young men with the knowledge, skills, and support systems needed to become active participants in the prevention of rape, and trustworthy and receptive friends for victims of rape. The text contains a detailed script which outlines how to set up and implement a program,and provides instructions on running a training course and recruiting new peer educators. Handouts and worksheets for both facilitators and participants are included, to promote further discussion and extend learning beyond the structured group setting. Originally conceived for use in colleges and universities, the program has since been proven effective in a range of settings including high schools, the military, community organizations, and correctional facilities."--Book jacket.

Unspoken crimes: sexual assault in rural America. (PDF 800K)
Susan H. Lewis (2003), National Sexual Violence Resource Center
In this booklet, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center considers sexual assault from a rural perspective, a viewpoint that is rarely presented. Social scientists and researchers who have looked at sexual assault have often considered diverse cultures and populations and asked how these cultures may confound reporting, accountability and service delivery, but they have virtually ignored the fact that rural America may also have deep-seated cultural and geographic characteristics that carry similar difficulties.

Urgent care services for sexually assaulted adult males.
Stermac, Lana….[et al].
Family Violence & Sexual Assault Bulletin; Vol. 20, no. 4 Winter 2004, pp. 5-10.
This study examined nonidentifying medical and nursing information which was collected at urgent care services used by sexual assault victims. Both male and female victims were compared on demographic, assault and service delivery variables. The findings indicated that men and women used a similar range and number of urgent care services following a sexual assault.

Violence against women: a review of impact and practices.
Christine Edmunds, Dan Petersen and Thomas Underood (2002), Joint Center on Violence and Victim Studies
This report addresses violence against women with the focus on three types of victimization: domestic violence, stalking, and rape.

Violence and Trauma in the Lives of Women with Serious Mental Illness: Current Practices in Service Provision in British Columbia. (PDF 184K)
Marina Morrow, (2002) British Columbia Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health
Despite a growing body of research that illustrates the impact of violence and trauma on women’s mental health, few programs designed to meet the needs of women with chronic and persistent mental health problems exist in British Columbia.

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