The Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) will conduct an inquiry into the justice system's approach to sexual violence. 

The initiative seeks to enhance the experiences of victims and survivors, addressing the trauma often exacerbated by their pursuit of justice.

Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus announced the appointment of the Marcia Neave AO and Judge Liesl Kudelka as part-time Commissioners to spearhead the inquiry, citing their extensive expertise in law reform and justice responses to sexual violence as invaluable to the endeavour. 

“This inquiry will delve into improving victims’ and survivors’ experiences within the justice system by scrutinising relevant laws, legal frameworks, and justice sector practices, among other aspects,” Dreyfus said.

Echoing the sentiment, Minister for Women, Senator Katy Gallagher, and Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth highlighted the Government's dedication to addressing and preventing family, domestic, and sexual violence, underscoring a $2.3 billion investment in this area.

The inquiry will be funded by a $14.7 million budget commitment for 2023-24.

With a focus on putting victims and survivors at the heart of justice responses, the inquiry will leverage insights from a sexual violence lived-experience Expert Advisory Group (EAG), ensuring that recommendations are informed by real-world experiences and challenges faced by those directly impacted.

Following a national roundtable and consultations with notable activists and survivors, the inquiry promises a comprehensive examination.

From exploring laws on consent to enhancing support services and training for legal practitioners, the inquiry aims to tackle the issues that contribute to the re-traumatisation of victims.

The inquiry's terms of reference are broad, targeting various cohorts disproportionately affected by sexual violence, including women, First Nations people, individuals from CALD backgrounds, and the LGBTQIA+ community, among others. 

The inquiry is due to report by 22 January 2025.

For those affected by family, domestic, or sexual violence, support is available 24/7 through 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or online at 1800RESPECT.org.au. Individuals concerned about their behaviour can reach out to the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 for assistance.