NSW opens free legal service for sexual assault survivors
A $1.74m Legal Aid service launches to help assault survivors get through the justice system and claim compensation.
Shannon Stokes spent two years and 11 days prosecuting her former boyfriend for sexual assault and domestic violence. She won convictions on nine of 11 charges.
Throughout the prosecution, Stokes felt isolated. Stokes received only a few pamphlets about looking presentable in court.
This week, NSW announced the Sexual Assault Survivors' Legal Service to fill that gap. The free service is run by Legal Aid NSW.
It will advise survivors on their rights. This includes help during police investigations, court processes, and getting victims' compensation.
Sarah Rosenberg is an advocate for justice reform. She says survivors must navigate a very isolating, complex system entirely alone.
They often feel re-traumatised by the court process. The only eligibility requirement is having experienced sexual assault.
It is part of a broader $6.2m state government package backed by federal funding to strengthen responses to sexual violence.
- $1.74m expansion through Legal Aid NSW
- Service investment
- Nine of 11 charges resulted in conviction
- Conviction rate
Why it mattersSurvivors often abandon the legal process feeling alone and unheard. Informed guidance and support directly change whether they pursue justice.
AustraliaNSW assault survivors can now access free legal advice during investigations and trials. The service removes cost and knowledge barriers to pursuing justice.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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