This resource sheet provides information on age of consent laws for each state and territory in Australia. These specify the legal age at which young people can consent to sexual intercourse or other sexual activities. We use the term ‘age of consent laws’ as this is the commonly used terminology. However, it is important to note that information about the legal age of consent is drawn from each state and territory Crimes Act or Criminal Code legislation and these do not necessarily use this term.
This resource sheet also provides information on legal definitions of consent and considers some common questions relating to age of consent laws. This resource is for practitioners and other professionals who work with children and families in Australia. Information for children and young people can be found at the end (see Further reading and resources).