AS OCTOBER draws to a close, so too does Sexual Violence Awareness Month.
The annual awareness-raising month shines a spotlight on sexual violence and promotes the support available to people who have been affected by sexual assault and sexual abuse.
Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc. has been holding events, including a free barbecue on the Cannonvale Beach foreshore, last Friday morning (October 25, 2024).
Information about sexual violence awareness was available and was handed out to passers-by, who asked questions of the team.
There was also a free sausage sizzle, which was welcomed by hungry runners and walkers on the boardwalk.
Sexual violence is any form of unwanted or forced sexual behaviour, or act toward another, regardless of age or gender, that occurs without consent.
From March 2024, new laws have been passed by government, strengthening sexual consent laws, including the new ‘affirmative model of consent’, where consent must be mutually agreed and discussed.
Whitsunday Counselling and Support also held an ‘Understanding Sexual Violence’ workshop, at its Cannonvale premises, on October 16.
Present at the workshop were representatives from the police, Child Safety, Head Space, Tailored Lifestyle Connections, Well Space Australia and the Proserpine Community Centre.
Attendees were taken through what constitutes sexual violence and what to do when someone reports it, including believing them, being supportive and asking how you can help.
Attendees were taken through case studies, and various scenarios that could happen, and were taught the appropriate responses.
The sexual violence workshops can also be delivered by Whitsunday Counselling and Support in organisations’ own premises.
Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc. is a not-for-profit, community based organisation offering a range of free and confidential services, provided in a safe and respectful environment.
For more information visit www.whitsundaycs.com.au
Pictured at the free sausage sizzle are: Charlotte Jones, Niamh Mulvihill, Andrea Bradley, Claudia Keddeman and Anna Hughes. Photo Deborah Friend.
HELP LINES
Sexual violence support services include:
Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc.
Queensland Sexual Assault Network
1800 RESPECT
DV connect (sexual assault line)
Headspace (12-25 y.o.)
National Redress Scheme
Bravehearts – The Courage Project
PoliceLink
Kids Helpline – free 24/7 – 1800 55 1800.
