Content warning: This episode discusses details of sexual assault, please reach out to the resources listed below for help if you are in need. 

One of the country's most anticipated criminal trials got underway this week, with former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins taking her alleged rapist to court over an incident in Parliament House in 2019.

But getting to this point hasn't been an easy road for anyone involved and for many survivors of sexual assault, even getting to have their day in court is too far out of their reach. 

In today's episode, we look at how the criminal justice system is not set up for victims of sexual violence and what needs to be done to make the system more balanced for both the alleged victim and their accused. 

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CREDITS 

Host: Claire Murphy

With thanks to: 

Nina Funnell - Walkley Award winning journalist, author and sexual assault survivor advocate

Dr Rachael Burgin - Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Criminology at Swinburne University of Technology and CEO of Rape & Sexual Assault Research & Advocacy

Jessica Wilson - CEO of Women Making Waves and sexual assault survivor 

Producer: Claire Murphy

Executive Producer: Liv Proud

Audio Producer: Thom Lion

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, please reach out to the below:

National Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Counselling Service 24-hour helpline 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732
24-hour Emergency Accommodation helpline on 1800 800 588
Safe At Home helpline on 1800 633 937
SHE (free and confidential counselling and support) on 6278 9090
Sexual Assault Support Services on 6231 1811, or after hours 6231 1817
Family Violence Crisis and Support Service on 1800 608 122
Bravehearts – Sexual Assault Support for Children on 1800 BRAVE 1
Kids Helpline is for young people aged 5 to 25 on 1800 551 800 
Don't go it alone. Please reach out for help by contacting Lifeline on 13 11 14

Men who have anger, relationship or parenting issues, should contact the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or the Don’t Become That Man helpline on 1300 243 413