Recent high-profile incidents of alleged sexual violence have prompted families to consider having conversations with their children about consent and healthy relationships. Research indicates that parents play an important role in teaching these concepts and countering harmful messages from online sources, though many struggle with how to begin.
Experts recommend that parents first build their own confidence by acquiring accurate knowledge about consent and sexual violence. Using precise terminology rather than euphemisms—particularly with teenagers—helps ensure children understand the seriousness of the topic. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, nearly 30% of all sexual assaults reported to police in 2024 were against girls ages 10–17, with the total number of recorded sexual assaults nationally increasing by 10% from 2023.
Rather than initiating formal sit-down discussions, parents may find casual settings more effective—such as conversations in a car or while doing chores. A useful opening is to ask children what they have seen in recent media reports and what their peers have said about the issues. Asking questions that help young people reach their own conclusions, rather than issuing instructions, tends to be more effective. Parents should maintain a calm, nonjudgmental tone and explicitly reject harmful stereotypes and myths about sexual violence.
Experts note that discussions about consent need not cover every detail at once. Starting conversations early—even with young children using age-appropriate language about bodily autonomy, physical affection, and boundaries—and maintaining ongoing dialogue is more effective than a single comprehensive talk. Parents should also help children think critically about misogynistic content on social media and explain how such material can normalize harmful attitudes toward women and girls.
If parents find themselves unable to have these discussions, research suggests enlisting another trusted adult to take on the role. Feminist approaches that prioritize the safety of women and girls, combined with parental support for school-based education on healthy relationships, have been shown to support violence prevention efforts.
