A report by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has revealed that only 8% of contemporary child sexual assault incidents are reported to New South Wales police, contributing to a persistently low conviction rate in such cases.
The study highlights that 85% of reported incidents do not result in legal action, with a significant attrition rate from the initial report to sentencing. This high attrition rate underscores the challenges in progressing cases through the criminal justice system.
Efforts to increase conviction rates should focus on improving the reporting and investigation phases and enhancing early evidence gathering. Additionally, detailed recording of police and prosecution decisions is crucial for understanding and addressing the causes of attrition in these cases.