surf coast sexual assault.
Two men have been sentenced to prison for sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl at a party in Victoria’s Surf Coast Shire.
Jaiden Fidge, 24, from Toowoomba, and Riley Smith, 26, from Albury, both pleaded guilty to sexual penetration of a child under 16. The offences occurred in February 2024, after the men met the victim at a party. Court reports detail that the victim was repeatedly abused, and both men lied to police upon their arrest before admitting to the crimes.
The court highlighted the severe emotional and psychological impact on the victim, who has experienced nightmares, feelings of shame, insecurity, and self-harm. Her father described the lasting distress he witnessed following the assault. Judge Gerard Mullaly described the offenders’ conduct as “abhorrent” and “shameful” and sentenced Fidge to 4 years 9 months, and Smith to 5 years 11 months in prison.
In Victoria, victims of crime may be eligible to apply for financial support through the Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS). If you or a loved one has been affected by sexual assault or another violent crime, sending an enquiry can provide guidance on available support and the process for making an FAS application.