A new multi-agency trial of early evidence kits will soon roll out across the Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network (FUNLHN), providing enhanced support for sexual assault victim-survivors in regional South Australia.
The initiative aims to inform the development of a statewide regional model that ensures victim-survivors in regional and remote areas can access timely, trauma-informed forensic medical care following a sexual assault.
By enabling earlier collection of forensic evidence, the kits will help reduce the risk of evidence deterioration while complementing the compassionate, patient-centred care already provided by healthcare professionals.
The Women’s and Children’s Health Network (Yarrow Place), Rural Support Service, South Australia Police (SAPOL) and the Attorney-General’s Department have partnered to integrate the kits into frontline crisis responses. This includes emergency departments and police stations, where many victim-survivors first seek support after a recent assault.
The trial has been made possible through funding from The Hospital Research Foundation Group.
Initial trial sites include Port Augusta, Roxby Downs and Whyalla. FUNLHN staff have already participated in preliminary information sessions and will undertake formal training alongside SAPOL officers in early July to support the rollout.
The introduction of early evidence kits responds directly to recommendations from the Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, particularly the need to ensure timely access to forensic medical examinations and health checks for victim-survivors in regional areas.
Insights from the initial sites will inform a phased expansion of the program across other regional locations, ensuring the model reflects the realities and challenges of rural practice.
Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Blair Boyer MP, said ensuring victim-survivors can access timely care closer to home is critical to improving both health outcomes and access to justice.
“This is especially important for people living in regional South Australia, who often face long travel distances to access specialised services,” Minister Boyer said.
“This trial demonstrates the strength of agencies working together to deliver timely support, improve care, and help ensure victim-survivors have the best possible opportunity for justice.”
The Hospital Research Foundation Group CEO, Professor Paul Flynn, said: “Too often, people living in regional and remote communities face additional barriers when accessing specialist healthcare and support services.”
“The Hospital Research Foundation Group is proud to support this trial to help close that gap, and ensure victim-survivors can access compassionate, trauma-informed care in a timely manner closer to home.”
