This document presents the proceedings from a national conference dedicated to discussing many areas and issues pertinent to rape. The conference was held in Wellington in March 1996, and was organised by Doctors for Sexual Abuse Care. The majority of papers and presentations from the conference are included in these proceedings. Discussions concentrate on the main topic areas of investigation, the justice process, and prevention of rape and sexual assault. Many of the studies included in this document report that the majority of offenders are known to the victim. Findings of one such study also revealed that almost half of the women disclosing adult sexual assault also disclosed child sexual abuse. The way the justice system, from the police to the courts, respond to sexual assault victims is investigated in detail. How doctors react when dealing with sexual assault victims is also explored. Many women victims report that respect, sensitivity and understanding are the most important characteristics for professionals in this instance. The role of restorative justice in sexual assault cases is discussed, particularly as it relates to Maori experiences of rape. This section also includes an example of the practice of restorative justice amongst a First Nations community in Canada. Many social service agencies had input into this conference, commenting on what is and is not being done in this field of practice. Rape and childhood sexual abuse of males is also explored. New Zealand key presenters include: Douglas Graham, Warren Young, Jan Jordan, Thomas Eichelbaum, Maurice Casey, and Elisabeth McDonald.