Note: This article deals with sexual assault and may be triggering for some readers.

Sexual assault, rape, and sexual violence are haunting words that often lurk in the dark, rarely discussed openly. Yet, they cast a long and harrowing shadow over the lives of countless Australian women. Conservative estimates suggest that one in five Australian women will experience sexual violence during their lifetime. For these women, these words aren't whispered; they're screamed, etching scars on the collective consciousness of Australia's female population.

In a nation that prides itself on justice and equality, this staggering loss of justice for survivors of sexual violence is a glaring contradiction. Only 1.5 per cent of sexual assault cases in Australia result in a conviction. This grim statistic leaves an overwhelming majority of survivors who navigate the complex and often are retraumatised by the justice system, only to witness their perpetrators walk free.

The reasons behind this alarming trend are numerous. Many survivors, discouraged by the low conviction rates and the daunting prospect of enduring a trial, choose not to report their assaults. The victim-blaming culture in Australia further compounds this issue. Survivors are often met with scepticism, judgement, and insensitivity when they do come forward, perpetuating a culture of silence and shame.

But amidst this bleak landscape, there are glimmers of hope. Recent initiatives, such as the Victorian Government's move to prioritise affirmative consent, mark a critical shift in addressing sexual violence. This legal change redefines consent as explicit, voluntary, and an ongoing process, shifting the responsibility from survivors to perpetrators. It highlights the need for individuals to actively seek and receive consent throughout a sexual encounter.

World Sexual Health Day, celebrated annually, is a global initiative endorsed by the World Health Organization. It's dedicated to promoting sexual health and wellbeing as a fundamental human right. This day focuses on the significance of consent, respect, and autonomy in all sexual interactions, aiming to educate people about these essential aspects. By fostering awareness and open dialogues, it works to combat stigma, promote positive sexual experiences, and enhance the understanding of consent and sexual autonomy worldwide.

The importance of an acknowledging consent model cannot be overstated. It forces a shift away from victim-blaming and towards holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. It dismantles the tactics of coercion and manipulation often employed by perpetrators, ensuring that sexual encounters are based on clear, mutual consent.

Education about consent, both inside and outside the bedroom, is crucial. It is essential to address these issues not just in intimate relationships but also in schools, courtrooms, and policy-making offices. Conversations about consent must permeate our society to create a safer environment for all.

Australia's women do deserve better. It's time for a cultural transformation that places consent, justice, and support at the forefront. It's time to end the staggering loss experienced by Australian women and provide survivors with the justice, compassion, and respect they rightfully deserve.