A new service is being rolled out to help curb unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport, emulating similar services available overseas.
\nThe \u2018STOPIT\u2019 service, which has been in development by Victoria Police since 2019, allows public transport users to discreetly text police using their mobile phone if they witness, or are subjected to, inappropriate behaviour.
\nUsers can 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.
\nA digital form including details such as time, date, location, and carriage number can be filled out, and a photo attached if it is safe to take one.
\nThe information will help Victoria Police ensure perpetrators don\u2019t get away with unacceptable behaviour, and determine where more police members should be deployed.
\nA similar service has operated in the UK for several years, and is credited with empowering victims and bystanders to come forward.
\nSuperintendent Alison Boyes said everyone should feel safe on public transport, and reporting unwanted sexual behaviour using STOPIT was one way to help make that possible.
\n\u201cMost incidents of unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport go unreported and we are determined to change that. We have a very high rate of identifying offenders for reported incidents, so by telling us, we can do something about it,\u201d Superintendent Boyes said.
\n\u201cAny situation which makes someone feel unsafe or uncomfortable is not OK. We want to hear about people\u2019s experiences so we can help make the network a safe place for everyone.\u201d
\nAnyone requiring an immediate police response in an emergency is still advised to phone Triple Zero (000), as STOPIT is not monitored live.
\nTo initiate the service, commuters can text \u2018STOPIT\u2019 to 0499 455 455. The service is currently available on trains, and will be extended to trams and buses in late August.
\nIt is available in 13 languages, and was developed with input from Department of Transport, public transport operators, the Public Transport Users Association, and women’s advocacy groups.
\nFor more information, go to www.police.vic.gov.au\/stopit.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A new service is being rolled out to help curb unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport, emulating similar services available overseas. The \u2018STOPIT\u2019 service, which has been in development by Victoria Police since 2019, allows public transport users to discreetly text police using their mobile phone if they witness, or are subjected to, inappropriate behaviour. […]<\/p>\n