The guide presents research-based insights that challenge common stereotypes, highlighting the diverse experiences of victims and survivors and offering practical examples and approaches for professionals to implement in their practice. It is intended for use by professionals within the Australian justice sector, specifically police, lawyers, and judicial officers. 

This resource aims to support a more trauma-informed, victim-centred approach within the Australian justice system, ultimately fostering a greater understanding of the complexities of sexual assault. It was developed in response to calls for improvements in the justice system's handling of sexual assault cases and draws on research from over 100 Australian and international sources.

The guide is shaped around the discussion of several critical insights into sexual assault that contradict common misconceptions. These include:

• There are multiple forms of sexual assault, which all have the potential to be profoundly harmful.
• Sexual assault does not always involve resistance, physical force or physical injuries.
• Alcohol and other drugs affect adults’ capacity to consent to sexual acts, and do not diminish perpetrator responsibility for sexual assault.
• There is no ‘normal’ way for a person to behave following sexual assault.
• Memory recollection ‘errors’ are normal and common after sexual assault.
• False allegations of sexual assault are not common.
• Victims’ and survivors’ experiences of sexual assault may be overlooked or ignored due to discrimination and/or stereotypes.