Illawarra advocates say Prime Minister Scott Morrison's decision not to take action after a cabinet minister was accused of rape has led to feelings of hopelessness and despair among survivors of sexual violence, and women more broadly.
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The news of the alleged historical rape of a 16-year-old girl came after former ministerial staffer Brittany Higgins and other women made allegations of rape and sexual harassment against a colleague at Parliament House.
Mr Morrison said the accused minister had denied the allegations, and when asked whether the individual in question should remain in his position, he replied it was a matter for police to handle.
Read more: Lawyers school PM on rape claim response
Dr Karen Williams, a psychiatrist and mental health advisor to the Illawarra Women's Health Centre, said many women felt unsafe in their homes and the community already, but to hear the Prime Minister disregard the testimony of a woman who said she was sexually assaulted as a child led to a sense of hopelessness for survivors.
To hear this happening among the people leading the country, she said, sent the message that nowhere was safe.
This was echoed by Wollongong West Street Centre counsellor Helene Panaretos, who said Brittany Higgins' story demonstrated that not even leaders were stopping sexual violence from happening.
Dr Williams said watching this issue play out in the public domain was really distressing, and had triggered memories and experiences for survivors.
Illawarra Women's Health Centre general manager Sally Stevenson also said the news caused survivors to relive their trauma.
"More broadly, it really impacts women because in reinforces how far we haven't come," Ms Stevenson said.
The government should stand the accused minister aside as any workplace would, she said, until the claims were investigated.
Ms Panaretos said sexual assault was a crime of silence and secrecy, and Mr Morrison had a responsibility to speak out.
Dr Williams wants to see the government establish a taskforce to investigate the claim against the minister, and look at long-term measures to prevent such behaviour in the future.
Dr Williams said the government also needed to offer free therapy for sexual assault survivors, through such avenues as the proposed Illawarra Women's Trauma Recovery Centre.
More than 200,000 women experienced sexual assault every year, she said.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for support. In a crisis, help is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14. If someone is in immediate danger, call triple-0.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
