You can seek specialist help immediately after a sexual assault, or if it happened a long time ago. Regardless of whether it is recent or historic sexual abuse, you can call or visit a specialist sexual violence service for counselling, support, resources and information or just to talk.

Some agencies have specialist counsellors on-site and others can refer you to specialist counsellors in your local community. Payment for counselling varies – some agencies offer free counselling, others ask you to make a contribution or to seek ACC or WINZ funding to contribute to costs. If you have reported to the Police, you may be entitled to financial assistance to replace anything you might have lost during the assault. A specialist agency can assist you with applying for this from Victim Support. 

ACC and WINZ provide funding for counselling to help you recover from sexual abuse. Find out more about both processes here.