About Us
Ballarat Centre Against Sexual Assault works towards the prevention and elimination of sexual assault by increasing community awareness and knowledge and by challenging the myths surrounding sexual assault.
Ballarat CASA takes a socio-political perspective. We believe that sexual assault is a violation of human rights and is a crime against the individual and society. It is not only an individual or private problem. Sexual assault occurs on a continuum from sexual harassment to coerced sexual rape with physical assault and the threat to life. Sexual assault is both a consequence and reinforcer of the power disparity between people. The prevention and elimination of sexual assault are the responsibility of the community at large.
Ballarat CASA offers free, confidential and professional services to people who have experienced sexual assault. We also provide support for their partners, family, and friends. These services aim to resolve the personal and social impact of sexual assault and to assist survivors to reclaim control in their lives and their relationships and to develop healthier ways of coping. We provide a safe and supportive environment in which people who have experienced sexual assault can explore the impact of sexual assault on their lives.
We work towards the prevention and elimination of sexual assault by increasing community awareness and knowledge and by challenging the myths surrounding sexual assault. Ballarat CASA is inclusive of people of all races, cultures and Ballarat CASA is a same sex attracted, sex and gender diverse inclusive service.
VISION
To live in a world free from sexual violence
Our Philosophy
- Sexual assault is a violation of human rights and is a crime against the individual and society. It is not only an individual or private problem.
- Sexual assault occurs on a continuum from sexual harassment to coerced sexual activity to rape with physical assault and threat to life.
- Sexual assault is both a consequence and reinforcer of the power disparity between people.
- The prevention and elimination of sexual assault are the responsibility of the community at large.
Our Objectives
Develop Ballarat CASA as an exemplary model of service.
To provide counselling, advocacy, and support to people who have experienced recent or past sexual violence. The target group includes children, adolescents and adults, both male and female.
To provide counselling and support to non-offending family members, carers, friends and partners of people who have experienced sexual violence of sexual assault.
To provide training and professional development to other professionals working with people who have experienced sexual assault.
To increase community awareness of the causes and consequences of sexual assault through the provision of community education and resources.
To work towards the prevention of sexual assault by providing treatment services to children and young people with Problem Sexual Behaviours and Sexually Abusive Behaviour.
OUR VALUES
Our practice is based on a feminist model – empowering, anti-patriarchal, honouring past experience, challenging institutions.
Responding flexibly to the needs of individuals, families and the community
Respecting the dignity and integrity of our clients.
Providing a safe environment that is confidential, anonymous, warm, welcoming, accessible and relevant.
Acknowledging the unique qualities of our local community and maximising this knowledge for the benefit of our community members.
Committed to creating positive change in individuals and the local community.