Sexual assault survivors in Victoria will soon be able to speak publicly about their abuse without having to get permission from a court.
Victoria Attorney-General Jill Hennessy on Friday announced reforms requested by survivors will be fast-tracked to make it easier for those who wish to speak out.
Earlier this week the , introduced in February, which require sexual assault survivors to obtain a court order to go public about their abuse in cases where a conviction had been recorded.
Survivors said the laws made them feel silenced, with Funnell saying victims of clergy abuse and other public advocates had been forced to discontinue their campaigns and media work.
The process to obtain a court order lifting the publication ban often cost survivors "thousands of dollars", she said.
The new amendments will mean the majority of survivors will no longer require a court order to tell their stories if they have given informed consent to being identified.
Funnell said on Twitter on Friday she welcomed the announcement and was "tentatively hopeful" that many of the issues would be ironed out.
Survivors and their advocates will be consulted about the reforms in September and the legislation will be amended later this year.
“I have immense respect for victim-survivors who have the courage to speak out about their experiences and advocate for positive change. We hear you and we will take action," Ms Hennessy said in a statement.
“These laws provide an important protection to maintain the privacy of sexual offence victims and help ensure they are not exposed to additional distress – they were never intended to inhibit willing victim-survivors being able to speak out and share their stories.”
Additional reporting by SBS News.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit . In an emergency, call 000.
