Consent Policy Framework released

The Australian Government has launched The Commonwealth Consent Policy Framework (the Framework).

Not only is consent the baseline for sexual activity free of violence and coercion – it is fundamental to safe, healthy and pleasurable sexual activity and relationships.

The Framework will assist with ensuring there is a shared understanding of consent. It will provide consistent messaging across Australian Government policies, programs, and communication materials targeting the specific needs of young people.

It can also be used by organisations across Australia to inform the delivery of services, programs, policies and communication materials targeting young people about consent.

The Framework aims to:

• Provide a clear and consistent definition of what consent means across activities, programs and products.
• Provide practical advice on how to communicate with young people about healthy sexual relationships and consent.
• Identify ways to address the underlying gendered drivers of sexual violence to promote positive attitudinal and behavioural change.

The Framework proposes a shared community definition of consent including five core concepts that underpin the definition. It also provides guidance on how to promote consent and healthy sexual activity through 10 key principles.

The Framework was developed based on evidence and advice from experts on consent education and sexual violence prevention.

Find out more:

To read the Framework, visit: dss.gov.au/sexual-consent

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family, and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via 1800RESPECT.org.au or text 0458 737 732. These services are available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.