Gatehouse

If your child has experienced sexual harm and you would like to speak with someone, you can contact Gatehouse Monday–Friday 9am–5pm on (03) 9345 6391. Our specialised sexual assault workers can talk to you about:

• Getting support for your child from our service.
• Reporting the sexual assault.
• Your child's medical and legal rights.

Please note: Gatehouse provides services to children and families who live in Brimbank, Melton, Moonee Valley, Maribyrnong, Melbourne, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham LGAs or are currently admitted at The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH). If you live in another LGA, find your local service on the Sexual Assault Services Victoria website.

When you contact Gatehouse or another specialist sexual assault service you and your child will:

• Be believed.
• Be treated with respect, sensitivity and understanding.
• Be informed of your rights.
• Get information.
• Be in control of decision making.
• Have privacy and confidentiality.

Police

You and your child can choose to make a report to the police about being sexually assaulted. It is important to know that you don’t/your child doesn't have to do this. We understand it can be hard to talk about.

If you/your child do choose to report being sexually assaulted to the police, there is a ‘Police Code of Practice’ in place to ensure you and your child feel safe and supported. The Police will then:

• Take your child to the RCH (or Monash Children's Hospital if closer) within two hours of the sexual assault – if they want to.
• Give them time to rest and receive any medical attention they need before giving a report.
• Provide you and your child with information about your rights and places you can get help from.
• Keep you and your child updated on the progress of their investigation.
• Provide you and your child with written reasons why a decision is made not to proceed with legal action against the person you have accused if you ask for this.