Sexual violence reports hit record high in Australia, up 64% over 15 years

Reported sexual violence in Australia reached its highest level ever in 2024, then fell less than 1% in 2025 — a barely measurable dip capping a 64% rise over 15 years. The annual domestic, family and sexual violence report, released on 9 September 2026, prompted Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek to tell Parliament of a mother who described parenting as "feeling like you're standing at the edge of a field watching something unfold."