MPs have been told that sexual assault services are seriously under-funded and many victims aren't getting the help they need.
The Social Services Committee is holding an inquiry into the funding of specialist sexual violence services.
Christchurch-based sexual violence agency manager Maggie Tai Rakena from START told the inquiry on Wednesday the Government's funding model has left many agencies seriously under-resourced.
She said in some parts of New Zealand, children who are raped have no recovery services.
Ms Tai Rakena said the sector should be funded similiar to an Accident and Emergency department in a hospital.
Social Services Minister Paula Bennett said she is sympathetic to the situation sexual violence services find themselves in.
