Sexual Assault - SECCA National Sexuality and Your Rights
Unhealthy Relationships

Sexual Assault

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Sexual assault may also be called rape.

Sexual assault is when someone:

  • forces you to have sex or do sexual behaviours
  • makes you do sexual things with them when you do not consent
  • does sexual things to you without your consent.

Sexual assault is a crime even if:

  • it happened with your partner
  • it happened a long time ago
  • drugs or alcohol were involved
  • you said yes at the start and then changed your mind
  • you know the person who assaulted you.
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against law

The law says sexual assault is a crime.

You have a choice about whether you talk to the police about sexual assault if it has happened to you.

The police can help you in many ways.

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There are counsellors
you can talk to for help.
Talking can make you
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help

Getting help if you have been sexually assaulted can look like talking to:

  • A local organisation that supports people who have experienced this.
  • Or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service, also called 1800RESPECT. Their number is 1800 737 732. They are usually open 24 hours, 7 days a week.

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Sexual Abuse in Families

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Indecent Assault

Other sections in Unhealthy Relationships

What is an Unhealthy Relationship?
Sexual Abuse in Families
Indecent Assault
Grooming
Sexual Harassment
Family and Partner Violence
Court Orders

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Page last updated: April 26, 2023

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