To consent to something means to agree to it.

• Doing anything sexual with another person without their consent is against the law.
• For someone to consent to sex, they must understand what they are agreeing to.
• For someone to consent to sex, they must have a clear enough mind to make a decision. So they cannot be so drunk, stoned or high that they can’t make a decision.
• For someone to consent to sex, they must be awake and not asleep or passed out.
• For someone to consent to sex, they must not be tricked, bullied or pressured into it.

What does having sex with consent sound like?

• If someone says “Yes”, “OK”, “Keep going”, or something else that clearly says they want to keep going, then you can keep going but remember to keep checking with them.
• It may sound like you are repeating yourself but at each point as you move closer to having sex, it is important to be getting verbal consent.

Silence does not mean consent.

• If someone says nothing – stop.
• If someone says “I’m not sure” – stop.
• If someone says “Maybe” – stop.
• If someone says “No” – stop.
• If someone says “Stop” – stop.

People can change their minds any time.

• If someone starts having sex with you and then doesn’t want to anymore, you must stop.
• If someone had sex with you once, but doesn’t want to again, you must stop.
• If someone does other sexual acts with you but does not want to have sex, or wants to stop doing those things, you must stop.
• If someone does sexual things with other people, but doesn’t want to do those things with you, you must stop.

If you have been abused, assaulted or raped

Sex, sexual touching, showing ‘private’ body parts, and showing people sexual photos or videos without consent is not OK. If someone has done this to you, you can speak with us at Family Planning Tasmania or you can call:

• SASS (Sexual Assault Support Service) – 1800 697 877 (24 hours)
• Kids Help Line – 1800 55 1800 or www.kidshelp.com.au

Everyone has a right to decide what they do with their own bodies, including you.

This content is provided for general information and education purposes only and does not take into account individual circumstances. It is not to be relied on in substitution for specific advice from a medical professional and Family Planning Tasmania does not accept responsibility for such use. Family Planning Tasmania has taken every effort to ensure that the information is up to date and accurate, however information and knowledge is subject to change. Family Planning Tasmania advises that you always consult a medical professional for individual advice.

Related topics