Reporting to police

Informal

An informal police report is for information only and no investigation is conducted. Your statement and the information provided is recorded and filed but not acted on.

Notifications can be made to relevant agencies, if needed, based on risk (for example, Child Safety, Work with Vulnerable Persons etc.)

A referral can be made to a Sexual Assault Support Service based on your location. This cannot be made without your consent.

Formal

A formal report will allow police to conduct an investigation.

The investigation will include:

• A vulnerable witness interview (or a Statutory Declaration in the presence of a witness intermediary for children or adults with communication needs).
• A Forensic Medical Examination (if appropriate) with support provided by a Sexual Assault Support Service based on your location. This cannot be done without your consent.
• Collection of exhibits (such as physical exhibits, CCTV, electronic evidence etc.)
• Completion and submission of medical release forms (if relevant)
• Statutory Declarations provided by witnesses
• Identification/interview of the alleged offender
• Other enquiries as necessary/relevant

Evidence threshold

If the evidence threshold is met:

• The offender is charged. The offender may be bailed or detained for court
• A request will be made for bail conditions to protect the reporting person (where necessary)

If the evidence threshold is NOT met:

• A Restraint Order/Family Violence Order may be applied for to protect the reporting person (where necessary)
• The matter will be reviewed by the Detective Inspector
• If further independent review is required the matter will be referred to the Director of Public Prosecution to recommend how to proceed

More information

• Where to find support
• Download the 'Reporting to Police Following a Sexual Assault' brochure