April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and this year’s theme is Embrace Your Voice.

The Top End Health Service’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) will hold a series of events across the Top End during April to raise awareness of sexual assault and abuse in the community and encourage people to embrace their voices and speak out against sexual violence.

This year the team is also acknowledging 30 years of service in the Top End, providing essential counselling and medical services to Territorians and their families.

Genevieve Dally, A/Manager of SARC said Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an opportunity for health professionals to connect with the community and raise awareness of the prevalence of sexual assault and how our service can assist victims and their families.

“Through raising community awareness and providing useful information and support, we aim to dispel the myths surrounding sexual assault and encourage the community to embrace their voice,” she said.

“This year’s theme is particularly poignant with the current focus on speaking up against sexual assault in the media.

“We all have a role to play when it comes to changing the culture around sexual assault and we would like to see the community engage in open conversations around sexual violence and consent so we can create a culture of respect, equality, and safety. Our voices have power and it is time for everyone to find that voice and embrace it.” 

The Darwin SARC team will be hosting the following community events;

·       Information display at RDH on the 9th, 10th, 23rd & 24th of April

·       Pop-up information stall at Casuarina Square on the 30th of April

·       Pop-up information stall at Palmerston Shopping Centre on the 24thof April

During April the team will also deliver professional development sessions in remote clinics to provide remote staff with the skills and knowledge to support victims and their families.

The SARC works collaboratively with Non-Government Organisations and key stakeholders to provide culturally appropriate 24 hour crisis support to victims of sexual assault across the Territory. 

For more information please call 8922 6472, or drop into the office at Level 1/ 9 Scaturchio Street, Casuarina.

Media Contact: Rickie Abraham 0419 818 414