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.