It’s International Women’s Day! And with the UN Chief declaring we’re seeing the ‘mainstreaming of misogyny’ we’re examining how real, passionate and tireless action leads to monumental change for women.
Lawyer, advocate, survivor and Dharug woman Karen Iles joins the discussion as we examine the significant recommendations handed down by the Australian Law Reform Commission this week that could seriously change things for victim-survivors of sexual assault, the majority of whom are women.
Less than 1 per cent of perpetrators are ever held as solicitors and advocates for victims/survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, leveraging her legal expertise and public platform to drive systemic change.
The ALRC found that with one in five women and one in 16 men experiencing sexual violence since the age of 15, fewer than one in ten such incidents are reported to police. From there, 75 to 85 per cent of such reports do not proceed to charges, and even fewer go to court.
As such, the ALRC has outlined a roadmap for fixing the justice system, including 64 recommendations for meeting the twin goals of access to justice and accountability. Read more on the findings here.
Karen joins Women’s Agenda co founder Angela Priestley for this ep, who also shares why every day is International Women’s Day on Women’s Agenda.
About Karen Iles
Karen is Founder of Violet Co Legal & Consulting, Karen and her practice provide legal advice and representation to victim/survivors. She works tirelessly to reform justice processes, advocating for improved police responses and reducing stigma around rape and sexual assault.
Recognised for her impactful work, Karen was named Private Practitioner of the Year by the Women Lawyers Association of NSW (2023) and received the Law Society of NSW Pro Bono Service Award (2022). Karen is a Dharug Aboriginal woman and victim/survivor of child sexual assault.
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