Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Asenjo said there were 21 incidents of alleged sexual crime reported between March 1 and 24.

"Warrnambool SOCIT are run off their feet with the amount of people reporting sexual crime," he said.

Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo is the sexual crime and family violence manager for western region division two, which encompasses Warrnambool, Moyne, Southern Grampians, Corangamite and Glenelg.

He said the increased reports occurred in the context of "greater community confidence".

"I think it is a good thing that people are reporting crimes, some of which could be historic," he said.

"We are able to manage and priorities the work so we encourage anyone thinking of reporting sexual crime to police, to do so."

Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo noted the recent nation-wide media coverage of sexual assault, including an allegation of rape within Parliament House which led to tens of thousands of people last week turning out to marches across Australia.

"While we cant really attribute the increase in reports here in Warrnambool to any particular theme, I can confirm there is a large number of people reporting sexual offences," Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo said.

"Sexual crime is appearing regularly in the media, particularly with what is going on in Canberra, and that is a real test to normalising the fact that women can report these crimes and that police are going to take action.

"It shows that women in particular don't need to suffer in silence anymore. They can get in touch with police and support agencies and we will do everything we can to advocate for you."

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Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo said making the first phone call was often the hardest part in reporting sexual crimes.

"Once they get over that initial hurdle we can help them with whatever information or pathway they need to find some recovery," he said.

"That might be having the matter investigated by police or receiving a referral to a support agency - we can do both those things and more."

The detective said community members could contact the sexual offences and child abuse investigation team by calling the Warrnambool police station.

"We can meet with you formally or informally and at any location, whether it's at your house, a café or at the police station," he said.

"We are happy to work with victims or friends of victims to provide the best advice possible.

"We can take a statement or simply refer people to the south-west's Centre Against Sexual Assault. If the offending occurred through a family violence setting we can refer you to a specialised support service. These agencies can access funding should these people require additional support along the way."

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000.

Emma House is a Warrnambool-based not-for-profit service and can be contacted through 1800 EMMADV (1800 366238) or visit emmahouse.org.au/

Safe Steps for women after hours service is available through 188 015 188.

Brophy Family and Youth Services can be contacted on 1300 BROPHY or 03 5561 8888.

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