The Australian and New South Wales governments announced the $1.74 million Sexual Assault Survivors' Legal Service on 28 September 2026. It expands Legal Aid NSW's capacity to provide free, specialist legal advice.
Advice from reporting through to court process
The official announcement says the service can assist with reporting to police, the criminal justice process, subpoenas and other legal issues connected with sexual assault.
It also includes a Sexual Assault Communications Privilege Service. That service helps health organisations and professionals understand how to respond when counselling or medical records that may be protected under New South Wales law are subpoenaed.
Legal advice complements practical navigation
The new legal service forms part of the $6.2 million Strengthening Sexual Violence Justice Responses package. The same package includes the previously announced Sexual Violence Justice System Navigator Pilot in 11 New South Wales locations and funding for research into restorative justice models.
Access to advice can improve meaningful participation
People affected by sexual violence may have to make difficult decisions while dealing with trauma and unfamiliar procedures. Free, specialist advice can help them understand their rights, the role of evidence and the steps that may follow a report.
Legal assistance supports participation; it does not decide whether an allegation is proved or determine the outcome of a case. Police, prosecutors and courts remain responsible for applying the law, examining evidence and preserving a fair process.
Protect
Genuine victim-survivors should be able to seek safe, trauma-informed and accessible help.
Inform
People should understand their rights, options and the treatment of sensitive records.
Examine
Evidence must still be assessed independently and fair-hearing safeguards preserved.
Victim support and fair process belong together
Justice Before Judgment supports practical assistance for genuine victims and the protection of children. A trustworthy justice system should also examine evidence independently and give every person a fair opportunity to be heard. These principles reinforce one another.
The governments and organisations named in the official announcement do not endorse this campaign. This article separates official information from independent campaign commentary.
Fairness needs a public voice.
Read the campaign's goals and safeguards, then add your support if you agree that justice should protect people, examine evidence and preserve fair process.
Source note: This update summarises an official government announcement and adds clearly labelled campaign commentary. It is general public information, not legal advice.