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Personal Safety

Alcohol

If you have had alcohol or drugs this can affect your judgment, physical response and awareness of your surroundings.

If you believe someone has given you drugs or alcohol without your knowledge and consent – this is against the law. Some people administer drinks to people and place drugs into that drink, for the purpose of sexually assaulting that person. This is called ‘spiking’ drinks.

Generally, this is a planned crime and regardless of what you may have voluntarily taken or had to drink, it is not your fault. It is common for victims of such crimes to only have part or unclear recollections of what happened to them.

Some things to do to prevent this occurring:

  • Avoid leaving your drinks unattended
  • Buy your own drinks
  • If someone offers you a drink go to the bar with them
  • Only accept drinks from people you trust
  • If you are given a drink make sure it is from an unopened container
  • Look out for your friends, keep an eye on their drinks. If you think their drink has been spiked get them out of there as quick as possible and watch their behaviour. You may have to seek medical attention or call the police.  

If you think someone has spiked your drink and you have been sexually assaulted or raped?

People have been known to use recreational or prescription drugs to render someone unconscious in order to sexually assault or even rape them.  
 
Do not be scared to report the matter to the police – even if you do not have recollection or memory of the attack. The sooner you report the matter the more chance police have catching the offender and helping you with medical and psychological assistance.

If you do not wish to report the matter to police – you can still seek counseling and confidential services.

Ten Personal Safety Tips

Australia is a very safe place but like any other country we have crime and people who take advantage of others. More likely than not, you will not encounter any threatening situations whilst in Australia.

These basic safety tips will assist you to become more aware of your surroundings and may reduce any chance of you being placed in a threatening position.

1. You have a right to safety like anyone else – your personal safety may become  threatened and you should be aware that it is a good idea to follow some safety strategies.

2. Do not possess a fear of being involved in a violent crime. This fear may result in you placing limitation on your lifestyle. If you follow practical safety strategies you can significantly minimize these risks.

3. Be committed to your personal safety and maintain it. This will keep you aware of most potential dangerous or unsafe conditions – if you are aware you will be able to remove yourself from the danger before something happens.

4. If you are able to display some confidence – this is a great tool to deter offenders. Offenders commonly pick weak or targets they believe who will offer them least resistance. Having confidence is a source of power. If you find it hard to be confident – fake it when you need to.

5. Body language is a powerful tool that can be used to your advantage. By appearing confident and comfortable in your surroundings, you decrease the attractiveness to potential offenders. Confident body language can be standing tall with your head up. If you only give brief eye contact this can be seen as a sign that you are not intimidated.

6. If you are aware of what is happening around you – this will alert you to any possible threats to your safety, before they occur. You will have the opportunity to remove yourself from the situation.   

7. Your body senses danger long before your mind consciously works out why. Listen to, trust and act on your instincts. If you sense danger or a bad feeling about someone or place – leave immediately and go somewhere where you feel safe.

8. Assertive communication allows people to express their views objectively to each an agreeable solution. Assertiveness does not come naturally to most people. In most day to day situations, you should be able to communicate confidently and assertively. On some occasions it will be best to act neither aggressively or passively to remain safe.

9. Try to develop a network or circle of people you can trust, you are in a new country. It will be important to have people you can ask advice, or assistance I an emergency or if you feel your personal safety is threatened. Even if you would like to talk to someone to express your feelings. Having your own network of trusted people to talk with will increase your confidence and self esteem.

10. Everyone should have their own personal safety plan. It should consist of safety strategies you choose to suit your lifestyle and abilities. You do not need to write it down and carry it around with you but if you have a good idea of what to do in certain circumstances this will suffice.