Historical or past assault

I was assaulted a while ago; can I still talk to police?

It is quite common for victims of sexual assault to take some time in coming forward to report the matter. This can be for many reasons, but no one asks or deserves to be a victim of sexual violence. It is not your fault and you are not to blame.

If it happened some time ago, for example 6 months ago, yes you can still report it. Even if you were assaulted many years ago, you can still report it or talk to police. We call these historical investigations.

If you wish to make a formal police report about a sexual assault which occurred in Queensland, whether recently or in the past, call Policelink on 131 444 or make an online sexual assault report to the Queensland Police Service.

If you don’t wish to make a formal complaint about a sexual assault, you may still report via the alternative reporting options (ARO). Police use this information to assist other investigations and develop strategies to target repeat offenders. If you choose to complete an ARO report you have to option to ask for an officer to contact you who will discuss your information further — or you can report the information and remain anonymous.