Shortly after Mayor Kevin Mack encouraged women to not walk alone and to have someone with them "at all times" as that in itself, was an "invitation" for someone to take advantage of them, he has now apologised for making the comment.
Mack had made the statement while reacting to the rape of a 17-year-old girl in Albury, southern New South Wales, on Tuesday. He later clarified by saying that the girl had not done "anything wrong," reported ABC News.
The reaction drew widespread condemnation on social media, with many accusing the mayor of blaming the victim.
The girl was allegedly raped "at gunpoint" by three men while returning home from work.