April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and this year’s theme is ‘I ask’.

During April, Top End Health Service’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), in collaboration with stakeholders, will hold a series of events.

Prue Boylan, Manager of SARC said Sexual Assault Awareness Month is an opportunity for health professionals to educate  the community and raise awareness of the prevalence of sexual assault and how SARC can assist victims and their families.

This year’s theme ‘I ask’, champions the message that asking for consent is a healthy, normal and a necessary part of everyday communication.

“Consent is about always choosing to respect the personal and emotional boundaries of others.

“All of us can practice consent in our lives by asking permission before assuming, listening and showing respect for others’ choices.

“Through engaging the community during Sexual Assault Awareness Month we hope to encourage people to embrace their voice and speak out against sexual violence, champion the power of asking for consent and promote SARC services.”

The following events are on during Sexual Assault Awareness Month:

Tuesday 2 April ‘Date of Action’: SARC and Charles Darwin University staff will resource an information stall at CDU (10.30am - 1.30pm, Red 8 Breezeway) promoting Sexual Assault Awareness Month and engaging with the audience about consent and respect.

Tuesday 2 April and onwards (weekdays only): Information stall at Royal Darwin Hospital. Staff will be manning an information stall in the Royal Darwin Hospital main foyer, speaking to people about consent, sexual assault prevention and the impact on the wider community.

Wednesday 10 April No Lights No Lycra: No Lights No Lycra, presents a special community dance event for all ages at Happy Yess, the event will have a focus on positive prevention messages and empowerment. 

Sunday 21 April: Deckchair Cinema, Country Women’s Association and Darwin Aboriginal and Islander Women’s Shelter presents ‘3 Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri’.

SARC provides culturally appropriate 24 hour crisis support to victims of sexual assault across the Territory. Call 8922 6472, or drop into the office at Level 1, 9 Scaturchio Street Casuarina (Mon-Fri 8am – 4.21pm)

Media contact: Sally Edwards 0419 818 414