Study of reported rapes in Victoria 2000-2003: Summary research report
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This sociological study was the first extensive analysis of police investigations into rape offences in Victorian more than a decade. Using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, the research analysed 850 rapes reported to Victoria Police over the three year period 2000 to 2003, drawing on the Victoria Police Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP) database. The research examined the factors that appeared to influence the outcomes of rape investigations, especially where the complaint was withdrawn or the investigation did not proceed. The study was undertaken to address some of the gaps in knowledge identified by the Victorian Law Reform Commission in its Final Report on Sexual Offences Law and Procedures, released in 2004. The Office of Women's Policy commissioned the research on behalf of the Statewide Steering Committee to Reduce Sexual Assault, one of three committees established by the Victorian Government to work in partnership with the community to implement the Women's Safety Strategy 2002-2007. The Strategy aims to reduce the level, and fear, of violence against women in Victoria. The research findings provided Victoria Police with a strong evidence base regarding the case characteristics and case outcomes of reported rapes and have been considered in the development of improved responses to victims of sexual assault.
Authors: Heenan, M, Murray, Suellen
Institution: RMIT University
Language: English
Subfield: Gender Studies
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W91639722