Speaking to the community about child sexual abuse

Speak Out is a group of men and women who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse. They seek to share information about childhood sexual abuse, how it affects children, and how it impacts the adults that the children grow up to be. It's also a support network for other survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Speak Out members have been trained in public speaking and are now available to talk about their experiences. Members welcome enquiries from community groups, organisations and individuals who are interested in learning more about sexual abuse and its effects on adults.

If you are a survivor and are interested in speaking about your experiences and would like to join this group please contact us. The group is open to any adult survivor interested in speaking out about childhood sexual abuse.

If you would like someone to speak to your community group or service please call Pauleen Fennell on 8245 8100 or email mail@rasa.org.au

Common misperceptions about childhood sexual abuse

Myth: Children lie or make up stories about being sexually abused.
Fact: Lies or exaggerations about sexual abuse are rare. Research over the last 20 years has demonstrated that sexual abuse is a real experience for many children.

Myth: Children are mostly sexually abused by strangers.
Fact: Most children are sexually abused by someone known to them, most often within their own homes.

Myth: Childhood sexual abuse happens mostly in specific communities and groups.
Fact: Childhood sexual abuse is prevalent in all communities.