Understanding sexual consent: Why it matters for everyone

Understanding sexual consent doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s a set of skills, like empathy and communication, that anyone can learn. By having open conversations, we can build a shared understanding that fosters healthy, respectful relationships for everyone.

Credit: Consent can't Wait

Key Points

• Young people aged between 10 and 17 years make up 41 per cent of all victims of sexual assaults.
• Consent applies to interactions between people in relationships and those who are not in relationships. 
• It's normal to have questions about consent. There are conversation guides available in 16 languages.

Warning: This content contains details about sexual assault that may be confronting or distressing.