FINAL TSTO Lesa Dec 14.pdf - Flipbook - Page 64
Forced sex
Almost 13% of the Australian population reports being frightened
or forced into a sexual experience. Nearly 3% of men and 10%
of women aged 16 or younger have been forced into some form
of sexual activity.25 Often the partners are known to each other
and may already have a relationship.
All young people need to know that there is a difference
between persuading or charming someone to have sex, and
forcing them. If the person feels he or she has restricted or
no choice about having sex because they are frightened or
pressured or threatened, or are blackmailed into a sexual act,
then it’s coercion. Sometimes a person may not want to have
sex but ‘gives in’ because they do not feel they can refuse.
Forcing another person to have sex (ie anything other than
mutual, free agreement) is sexual assault, and may result in a
criminal charge. It is a serious crime.
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Make sure your children know that they cannot use force in this
way, and that this kind of force is wrong. If there is any doubt
about the other person wanting sex, then they must stop.
No-one ‘owes’ anyone sex.
‘Going outside’ with someone at a party, for example, is not a
contract for sex.
They can change their mind at any time including during
sexual activity.
If a person has been sexually assaulted, they can contact a
sexual assault service, NSW Rape Crisis, or the nearest hospital
or health professional for assistance. Twenty four hour telephone
and online support is available, see page 63.
Sex and the law
In NSW, the legal age for males and females to consent to
sexual activity is 16 years. The law says that if you have sex with
someone who is under 16 years of age it is a crime.
