Reporting Child Sexual Abuse

Phone Triple Zero (000) if it’s an emergency or if you believe a child is in immediate danger or in a life-threatening situation.

Has your child or a child you know disclosed they have been or are being sexually abused? Do you suspect a child may be the victim of sexual abuse? Reporting child sexual abuse can be confronting and upsetting, but it may be the first important step in helping the child and preventing further harm.

Please note that in many States and Territories, it is an offence for an adult to be aware that a child is being abused (by another adult) and not report this to Police. This means all adults have the responsibility to report sexual abuse (or suspected abused) against children.

On this page, you will find details of where to report child sexual abuse or suspected sexual abuse in your State or Territory.

When to report child sexual abuse

• If you have concerns that sexual abuse may be occurring or has previously occurred.
• If sexual behaviour problems/harmful sexual behaviours have been observed or disclosed.
• If you have a suspicion or concerns that a child or adult may be at risk of harm to themselves and/or others.
• A child or vulnerable person has disclosed that they are being or has been sexually abused.
• If you have received an allegation of sexual abuse regarding a child or vulnerable person.
• If you believe on reasonable grounds that a child or vulnerable person is in need of protection.
• If an adult discloses that they were a victim of child sexual abuse or exploitation when they were under the age of 18. NOTE: A reason not to report a historical child sexual abuse disclosure is if you have received information about the victim who is now an adult, you reasonably believe they do not want to reveal it to Police and there is no current risk of harm to children.