Victoria’s sexual assault gag law reforms give survivors much-needed control over their story

'In future, politicians must consult and listen to survivors before they meddle with legislation this sensitive.'

Nov 18, 2020

Victorian Attorney-General Jill Hennessy (Image: AAP/Ellen Smith)

Changes to a botched bill in Victoria gagging sexual assault survivors from publicly identifying themselves come into effect today.

But one element -- around tailored consent -- leaves media outlets in the lurch: journalists must get written consent from the survivor before writing about them.

Although it gives survivors control over how their story is written, it creates an issue for vocal survivor advocates sharing their story.

Keep reading about the need for more reform.

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About the Author

Amber Schultz

Reporter @AmberMaySchultz

Amber previously worked for Nine News and The Age and created student comedy talk show The Struggle. She was a Young Walkley finalist, Jacoby-Walkley scholar, and won an Ossie Our Watch award. Amber holds a Masters in International Relations and Journalism and is fluent in Spanish.