The Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) service provides independent, client-led advocacy for victim-survivors of sexual violence in the ACT. ISVAs work alongside clients as consistent, trusted advocates; helping people navigate the complex and often overwhelming systems involved in justice, health, and recovery. 

The ISVA service is delivered by CRCC and funded by the ACT Government. It is grounded in the principle that no one should have to navigate these systems alone, without information, or without someone in their corner. 

What ISVAs Do 

ISVAs provide tailored, trauma-informed, and culturally safe advocacy across a broad range of areas: 

• Justice system navigation – explaining police processes, criminal and civil legal options, and restorative justice pathways 

• Reporting support – assisting victim-survivors who choose to report to police, and supporting those who do not 

• Court support – preparing clients for court processes and providing in-person court accompaniment 

• Healthcare advocacy – navigating medical and mental health systems, including forensic medical processes 

• Housing, education, and community sector advocacy 

• Systemic advocacy – identifying and challenging barriers within the justice and service systems to improve outcomes for all victim survivors 

All ISVA support is non-judgemental and client-led. Clients set the pace, goals, and direction of their support. ISVAs do not pressure people toward any particular outcome, including reporting. 

Who Can Access ISVA 

The ISVA service is open to all victim-survivors of sexual violence in the ACT. We actively prioritise access for marginalised communities, including: 

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 

• Children and young people 

• Culturally and linguistically diverse people 

• People living with disability 

• Members of the LGBTIQA+ community 

As with all CRCC services, safety is paramount. Following a risk assessment, people who use sexual, domestic, or family violence in their relationships may be excluded from access. 

Why the ISVA Service Matters 

Navigating the justice and health system after sexual violence can be complex, fragmented, and re-traumatising. ISVAs address the barriers that keep victim-survivors from accessing justice and recovery by translating complex systems, building trusted relationships, and ensuring no one has to navigate these processes alone. 

How to Access ISVA 

The ISVA service is available at any stage, whether you are considering reporting, have already reported, are engaged with court processes, or simply need information and support. You can access ISVA through self-referral or agency referral via our crisis line.