Sexual assault survivor coalition demands legal review after barrister's
Over 90 survivors and anti-violence leaders call for legal education to be reviewed. A barrister questioned whether victims should be believed.
A Melbourne barrister said some women make false allegations about sexual assault. This started a nationwide push from survivors and groups against violence.
Barrister Geoffrey Steward made these claims on LinkedIn. He said victims should only be taken seriously if the attacker confesses or is found guilty.
He also said accused people should not be named in court unless they plead guilty or are found guilty. Over 90 survivors and 11 leaders from groups against violence sent an open letter.
They told government and legal authorities that his comments could spread wrong ideas about assault. These views could also deny victims access to important services.
Research shows about 5 per cent of sexual assault allegations made to police are false. Between 7.7 and 13 per cent of women who experience sexual assault report it to police.
Victorian Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said she rejects outdated views on sexual violence.
Why it mattersLawyers' attitudes determine how survivors are treated in court and whether they get help. Myths about false allegations prevent people from reporting real crimes.
AustraliaAustralia's legal system and training will face scrutiny over how it handles sexual assault cases and victim support, potentially changing how lawyers are educated and courts operate.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
Open this story in InSnip →
