Unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport will be easier to report thanks to a new Victoria Police service.
Called STOPIT, the service will allow people subjected to unwanted sexual behaviour or those who witness it to discreetly message police using their mobile phone and then receive a link to provide a report to a dedicated team of transit police.
Based on a similar service in the United Kingdom and the result of about three years of work, the service will be the first time a police force in Australia has deployed such technology.
Transit and Public Safety Command Assistant Commissioner Dean McWhirter said he was “incredibly proud” of all those involved in the development of the STOPIT service.
“It’s a demonstration of our commitment to ensure unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport is called out for what it is – and that’s completely unacceptable,” he said.
“STOPIT will give police a better understanding of exactly what’s occurring and most importantly boost our ability to identify perpetrators and hold them to account.”
People using the service will be able to notify police about six types of behaviours comprising unwanted sexual behaviour, suspicious behaviour, threatening and offensive behaviour, obscene and racist language, drug and alcohol-related incidents and graffiti and property damage.
Superintendent Alison Boyes said Victoria Police hoped the new initiative would allow for all incidents of unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport be reported.
“We have a very high rate of identifying offenders for reported incidents so by telling us, we can do something about it,” she said.
“Years of research and dedication has gone into creating this service to ensure it’s accessible to anyone, anytime.
“Any situation which makes someone feel unsafe or uncomfortable is not OK. We want to hear about people’s experiences so we can help make the network a safe place for everyone.”
To initiate the service, commuters can text ‘STOPIT’ to 0499 455 455.
STOPIT is now available on trains and will be extended to trams and buses in late August.
The service is available in 13 languages.
Details: www.police.vic.gov.au/stopit
