Who Is Affected by Sexual Violence

Why they are affected: Children and young people are still developing emotionally and physically. They may not fully understand boundaries, consent, or unsafe behaviour. Offenders often exploit trust, dependence, or lack of awareness.

How they are affected:

• Trauma, fear, anxiety, depression
• Developmental delays or regression
• Difficulty trusting adults or peers
• School disengagement and learning challenges
• Long‑term impacts on identity, relationships, and self‑worth

 Why they are affected: Women experience higher rates of sexual violence due to gender inequality, power imbalances, and societal norms that minimise or excuse harmful behaviour.

How they are affected:

• PTSD, anxiety, depression
• Physical injuries or long‑term health issues
• Fear, hypervigilance, and reduced sense of safety
• Relationship difficulties and social withdrawal
• Economic impacts (missed work, reduced participation)

Why they are affected: Men can be victims of sexual violence but often face stigma, shame, or cultural expectations that discourage disclosure or help‑seeking.

How they are affected:

• Trauma, anger, confusion, shame
• Difficulty seeking support due to stigma
• Impacts on identity, masculinity, and self‑esteem
• Relationship and trust challenges 

Why they are affected: LGBTQIA+ individuals may face discrimination, family rejection, or unsafe environments. Perpetrators may target them due to prejudice or perceived vulnerability.

How they are affected:

• Trauma compounded by identity‑based discrimination
• Higher rates of mental health challenges
• Fear of reporting due to stigma or lack of safe      services
• Isolation from family or community

Why they are affected: Historical trauma, systemic discrimination, and barriers to culturally safe services increase vulnerability. Colonisation may also affect community and family structures.

How they are affected:

• Intergenerational trauma
• Distrust of institutions or justice systems
• Higher rates of mental health distress
• Cultural, community, and identity impacts

Why they are affected: Dependence on caregivers, communication barriers, and social isolation can increase risk. Offenders may exploit vulnerability or lack of accessible reporting pathways.

How they are affected:

• Trauma and fear
• Increased difficulty accessing support
• Loss of independence or trust in caregivers
• Long‑term emotional and behavioural impacts

Why they are affected: Language barriers, visa insecurity, cultural stigma, and limited access to services can increase vulnerability and reduce help‑seeking.

How they are affected:

• Trauma combined with cultural shame or fear
• Isolation from community or family
• Difficulty navigating legal or support systems
• Increased risk of ongoing harm

Why they are affected:Living away from home, limited support networks, financial pressure, and unfamiliarity with Australian laws can increase risk.

How they are affected:

• Fear of reporting due to visa concerns
• Academic decline and social withdrawal
• Trauma and mental health challenges
• Loss of trust in peers or institutions

Why they are affected:Past trauma, settlement stress, language barriers, and fear of authorities can increase vulnerability.

How they are affected:

• Trauma layered on previous experiences
• Fear of deportation or community shame
• Difficulty accessing culturally safe support
• Long‑term emotional and social impacts

Why they are affected:Dependence on caregivers, isolation, cognitive decline, or physical vulnerability can increase risk.

How they are affected:

• Trauma, confusion, fear
• Decline in physical and mental health
• Loss of trust in caregivers or institutions
• Increased isolation and withdrawal