Victoria Police is launching an Australian-first service that allows people to instantly report sexual harassment and offensive behaviour on public transport.
The tool, called STOPIT, enables people who are victims of or witnesses to harassment on public transport to text a number which alerts transit police to the incident.
The person then receives a link to provide information about the behaviour and even submit any photos they are able to take of the incident or perpetrators.
Superintendent Alison Boyes from Victoria Police said most incidents of unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport went unreported.
"We have a very high rate of identifying offenders for reported incidents so, by telling us, we can do something about it," she said.
"We want to hear about people's experiences so we can help make the network a safe place for everyone."
Assistant Commissioner Dean McWhirter from Transit and Public Safety Command said Victoria Police was the first police force in Australia to use such technology.
"It's a demonstration of our commitment to ensure unwanted sexual behaviour on public transport is called out for what it is — and that's completely unacceptable," he said.
In addition to unwanted sexual behaviours, people on public transport will be able to report anti-social behaviour such as verbal abuse, threatening behaviour, and vandalism.
To initiate the service, people can text 'STOPIT' to 0499 455 455.
The service is available now on trains and will be extended to trams and buses in late August.
