Sexual assault

Sexual assault is when you are forced, coerced or tricked into doing sexual things when you don’t want to. Sexual assault is never the fault of the survivor. It is also a common experience to wonder whether an experience you’ve had could be sexual assault. You might experience a range of emotions and it’s important to know there are support services who can help you.

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Grace Tame on how sexual assault survivors can share their story with people they trust

Grace Tame, 2021 Australian of the Year, explains what sexual assault survivors can do if they want to share their story safely and constructively.

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What is sexual assault?

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, remember it’s not your fault and it’s never okay for someone to force you to do something you are uncomfortable with.

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What to do if you realise a past experience was sexual assault

This article can help you work out if a past experience was sexual assault, how to come to terms with this realisation, and what steps you can take next.

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Sexual assault support services

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, professional support is available to you. Find sexual assault support services, helplines and support groups here.

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6 tips for supporting a friend who's been sexually assaulted

It can be confronting when a friend tells you they’ve been sexually assaulted. Not sure what to do? Here’s how best to support them and yourself.

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6 things you need to know about sexual consent

Sexual consent is when you and your sexual partner both agree to have sex. It's really important to be clear on this before things get too hot and heavy.

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Waking from the nightmare

She lost her sister. Her parents divorced. She was sexually abused. Read how she took control of her own nightmare.

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Everything you need to know about sexual assault

Learn about sexual assault, how trauma can affect your life, and how you can get support during tough times.

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What is sexual harassment?

‘Sexual harassment’ is any form of unwelcome sexual behaviour that’s offensive, humiliating or intimidating.

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What is child abuse?

The effects of abuse on a child are serious and long-lasting. No matter when the abuse has occurred, you can get help and support.

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What to do if you want to take action against someone who sexually assaulted you

If you have been sexually assaulted or abused, and want to take action against your perpetrator or seek justice for what happened, here are some options to consider.

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Signs of an abusive relationship

It’s not always obvious that you’re in an abusive relationship. Learn some of the key signs to look for.

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If you're a male survivor of sexual assault, here are some things you should know

Can men be raped? Here’s why sexual assault against men is a big problem, and how to get support if this has happened to you.

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Experiencing trauma

Learn more about what a traumatic experience is, what are some common responses to trauma, and get some tips on how to cope.

illustrations of people using self help strategies for depression. Strategies include pushing back against negative thoughts, being active, not using drugs or alcohol, gaming, reading, and chatting with friends.

Self-help for depression

Are you looking for small but meaningful ways on how to deal with depression? Read our guide on self-help for depression for some easy places to start.

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How to manage anxiety and stress

It’s totally normal to feel stressed or anxious from time to time, but there’s lots of things you can do to feel a bit better. Learn how to deal with anxiety here.

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How to ask a friend if they're okay

Worried about a friend? Letting them know you're there for them can make a big difference. Check out our seven simple steps to asking if they're okay.