At a time when sexual assault and its long-lasting effects has come under the national spotlight a coalition of Alice Springs service providers is joining the Central Australia Health Service (CAHS) to highlight the importance of ‘Breaking the Silence’. 

“April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and we are focusing on the integral role that individuals, community organisations, the community at large and the private sector play in prevention and ‘Breaking the Silence’ around sexual assault,” said Sarah Berben from CAHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).

“Anyone can be a leader and take responsibility in the fight to prevent and end sexual assault.

“The coalition of service providers strongly embraces the obligation of keeping our community safe from this crime and to stand strong with survivors and victims of sexual assault,” Ms. Berben said.

“Sexual violence is a serious and widespread public health problem that must be addressed openly and proactively,” said Maree Corbo from the Tangentyere Family Violence Prevention Program.

“By using the best and available evidence we can stop this violence early and reduce its consequences,” said Phynea Clarke from the Central Aboriginal Family Legal Unit.

“All sectors have a role to play and by working together we will improve the health and safety of individuals, families, and communities.”

“It is important for all of us to break the silence, respond and provide assistance as sexual violence aims to hurt, humiliate, intimidate, demean, assert control and blame the victim,” said Di Gipey, Chief Executive Officer of the Alice Springs Women’s Shelter.

“Breaking the silence requires courage and needs to be embedded in a critical support system and a responsive criminal justice system,” said Julia Parkin from the Central Australian Women’s Legal Service.

Knowing that significant collaboration is necessary to achieve a cultural shift, SARC is partnering with key stakeholders in Alice Springs during April and beyond to continue ongoing focus around this important and sensitive subject.

The Central Australia Health Service is governed by a Statutory Board and is responsible for the Alice Springs and Tennant Creek Hospitals.  It has a primary role in health service delivery in the region, including primary health care, mental health, oral health, cancer screening services and alcohol and other drug services.

Media Contact: Gail Liston 8951 5111 or 0476 839 383