Sex assault victims in Victoria, South-East Australia, have lost their right to use their own names when they tell what happened to them – and who did it!
The changes to the Judicial Proceedings Reports Act, introduced in February, silence all sexual assault victims from ever speaking out under their real identities.
These laws are seen as a “major victory” for convicted paedophiles and rapists
The laws also apply irrespective of when the crime happened or when the offender was found guilty.
This includes scores of high profile survivor advocates who have been speaking out for decades.
These individuals will now potentially face jail if they continue their advocacy work under their real names.
Any sexual assault victim found guilty of breaking the new laws could face up to four months jail and fines in excess of $3000. Media outlets could also face potential prosecution and fines of over $8000.
The only way for a survivor to reclaim the right to self-identify in public, is to take the matter to court and obtain a court order – a process which could cost each victim in excess $10,000.
#sexabuse #victims #peadophiles #silenceofthelambs #courts #fines #publishing
