Most parents and carers agree that consent is important, and we should talk to young people about it.

Why is this? And why now?

Well, teenagers are the most likely to experience and to commit sexual violence out of all age groups. This might be because young people don't have a good understanding of consent or hold problematic attitudes due to common myths surrounding the topic. Or there is pressure from peers and media, or even access to drugs and alcohol. And with new technology and the internet, conversations about consent need to adapt to the realities young people face today.

They regularly view and share nude or pornographic content, which can be illegal, and it can also distort their understanding of healthy relationships and boundaries.

And alarmingly, far too many young people experience sexual assault or violence, with females disproportionately affected at three times the rate of males.

This is a really challenging reality, but it's one that we can change. 

How? We need to foster open communication and understanding about consent. If we do so, we can empower young people to build relationships that are based on respect and empathy and genuine connection.

Learn more at consent.gov.au

Because consent can't wait.