What are Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (SOCITs)?
Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (SOCITs) are made up of specialist detectives who are trained to investigate
the complex crimes of sexual offences and child abuse.
The role of a SOCIT is to:
- Investigate crime
- Apprehend offenders
- Work in partnership with other services to ensure an empathetic, professional and comprehensive response to victims of sexual offences and child abuse
- Initiate prevention and reduction strategies.
In partnership with other agencies, the SOCITs deal with a case from the time of disclosure, through the investigation process
and then on to court.
This model means that victims will be able to establish an ongoing relationship and trust with one or two police members and won't have to retell their personal experiences many times.
There are SOCITs throughout Victoria. The teams vary in size depending on their location and work requirements. You can
contact your local police station to find your nearest SOCIT, or click here.
What are Multidisciplinary Centres (MDCs)?
MDCs co-locate a range of partner agencies in the one building to provide a victim-centred, integrated and holistic response to victims of sexual crime and child physical abuse.
This approach is an innovative way of responding to sexual crime by providing better coordination of specialist services which improves responses and outcomes for victims.
MDC buildings are located away from police stations and are designed to provide a welcoming, confidential, and safe environment. They are discreetly located with minimal external signage to enhance the privacy and security of clients. Police members working from the MDC are not in uniform.
As at September 2017 there are six MDCs located in Bendigo, Dandenong, Geelong, Mildura, Morwell and Seaford.
A further MDC is to be established in Wyndham.
Co-located specialist professionals and services include:
- Victoria Police Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Teams (SOCITs)
- Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Child Protection
- Centres Against Sexual Assault (CASA) Counsellor/Advocate
- Community Health Nurse
- Forensic Medical Officers (at some locations)
Some MDCs also include a range of services that respond to family violence.
For more information see
Sexual Assault Crisis Line (SACL) (24 hours) 1800 806 292
1800 Respect (24 hours) national telephone line for victims of sexual assault & family
Victims of Crime Help Line (7 days, 8am-11pm) 1800 819 817
e-Safety Commissioner
Child Protection Service DHHS (24 hours) 131 278
Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (24 hours) for women and children: 24 hour support 1800 015 188 or 9322 3555
Kid's Help Line
1800 551 800
