In a life threatening emergency dial Triple Zero (000)

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Forensic and Medical Sexual Assault Care (FAMSAC) provides a safe and caring environment for victims of sexual assault.

About this service

Our doctors and nurses are available 24 hours, 7 days a week for forensic medical examination if you have been sexually assaulted.

Medical care is usually provided at the time of the forensic medical examination, but you may need to return during business hours for follow up medical care.

You have the option to choose a male or female doctor.

We can connect you with sexual assault counselling.

Our service is free, and information and treatment is strictly confidential.

It is important to know that by accessing this service you do not have to report the sexual assault to police.

Who we care for

We care for people 15 years or over who have experienced sexual assault in the previous five days.

How to access this service

You can access this service by coming to the emergency department.

You can also:

  • call Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 02 6247 2525, or
  • call the police on 131 444. These calls are answered by ACT Policing’s Operations who will arrange for police to meet with you, or
  • visit a police station.

In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

ACT Policing also have a website that you can use to report online.

What to expect

Both Canberra and North Canberra Hospitals provide support for all victims of sexual assault and provide emergency treatment.

You will be seen by emergency department triage staff prior to your consultation with our FAMSAC staff.

We can administer preventative medical care against Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.

We may take forensic evidence samples from you with your permission. These samples will not be taken without your permission.

Our Forensic and Medical Sexual Assault Care team can answer your questions about timelines for DNA collection, emergency contraception as well as screening tests for sexually transmitted infections.

Where we’re located

Forensic and Medical Sexual Assault Care is located at Canberra Hospital.

We have directions to Canberra Hospital.

Resources

Sexual Assault Care, your rights and responsibilities

Canberra Rape Crisis Centre (CRCC): (02) 6247 2525

Domestic Violence Crisis Service: (02) 6280 0900

Child and Youth Protection Services: 1300 556 729

Victims Support ACT: 1800 822 272

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

Translation and interpreting service: 131 450

1800 respect: 1800 737 732

Information for referrers

Please see Community HealthPathways for detailed referral criteria and information.

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In the case of a life threatening emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).

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Contact us

Switchboard Canberra Hospital
(02) 5124 0000

International callers
+61 (2) 5124 0000

Switchboard North Canberra Hospital
(02) 6201 6111

International callers
+61 (2) 6201 6111

Switchboard other hospitals and services
(02) 5124 0000

International callers
+61 (2) 5124 0000

The switchboard handles all calls to, from and within the hospital 24 hours/seven days a week