A critical legal service providing free support to victim-survivors of sexual violence in the Australian Capital Territory will continue its operations after the federal government announced a significant funding extension.
The Sexual Violence Legal Service, initially launched as a pilot program in the ACT in 2024, has been guaranteed financial support until at least 2028. This decision comes in direct response to what the service describes as 'enormous and unmet' demand from the community.
Addressing a Critical Need in the Justice System
In the last financial year alone, the specialist service provided crucial assistance to more than 200 clients. Elena Rosenman, the chief executive of the Women's Legal Centre ACT, which runs the service, emphasised the profound importance of this independent legal representation.
"Independent legal representation gives victims and survivors clarity and protection - even when the outcome isn't what they hoped for," Ms Rosenman stated. "It is safety. It is trust. It is empowerment."
She highlighted the often-traumatic nature of the criminal justice system, describing it as confusing, slow and re-traumatising. Having a dedicated legal expert, she argued, can be the deciding factor for a survivor in whether they continue with their case or feel compelled to withdraw.
Federal Government Backs National Support Services
The announcement on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, was part of a broader federal initiative to expand and extend similar pilot programs across Australia. Federal Attorney-General Michelle Rowland affirmed the government's commitment, stating, "Sexual and gender-based violence is a scourge on our society, and the Albanese government is committed to removing barriers to achieve justice."
Without this funding injection, Ms Rosenman confirmed the service would have been forced to drastically reduce its operations. The extension now allows it to not only sustain but potentially increase the level of support offered to the community.
Currently, the service manages 135 ongoing legal matters, covering all stages of the criminal justice process. This includes support with initial police reports, complex pre-trial procedures, preparing victim impact statements, and obtaining protection orders.
Holistic Support and the Path Forward
Acting Victims of Crime Commissioner Margie Rowe welcomed the funding, noting it enables the continuation of integrated, wraparound support for survivors. This comprehensive approach includes navigating justice agencies, court support, safety planning, and referrals for therapeutic and financial assistance.
Despite this significant progress, both the Women's Legal Centre ACT and the ACT Human Rights Commission have stressed that further systemic reform is still urgently needed. The funding also aims to bolster support for those in the ACT seeking restorative justice pathways.
The service remains a vital lifeline, ensuring that those subjected to sexual violence do not have to face the daunting legal system alone.
