Understanding sex and consent
Consent matters - each and every time. We all have the right to be safe, respected and have autonomy over our bodies.
Adelaide University is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all. Everyone has a role to play in creating a community where consent, positive communication and respectful relationships are a part of everyday life.
The information on this page will be further developed throughout 2026. If you have any questions or contributions to this content, please email respect@adelaide.edu.au.
What is consent?
Consent is a vital part of any healthy relationship, including intimate and sexual relationships. It is an informed and freely given agreement to engage in an activity.
Consent involves one person seeking permission from another before engaging in an activity - and the other person ‘affirming’ or giving their permission for that to happen.
You always need consent. Whether you’re in a long-term relationship or have just met someone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
There are some important things to note about consent:
- It must be ‘checked’ and affirmed first.
- Consent must be freely given - meaning a person must not be pressured into agreeing to something against their will.
- It is reversible and anyone can change their mind at any time.
- It is informed and involves ongoing and mutual communication.
- It must be enthusiastic through words or actions, as consent cannot be assumed from silence or inactivity.
- It is specific, meaning that consenting to one sexual activity, does not mean you are consenting to another.
- Consent must be checked, every time.
For more detailed information and resources on sex, dating and relationships visit The Line.
When can’t a person consent?
To give consent, you need to be willing and able to agree to any sexual activity before it happens. There are some situations where a person is unable to give consent.
A person cannot consent if they are:
- asleep or unconscious
- significantly affected by alcohol or other drugs
- intimidated, coerced, or threatened
- tricked about the identity of the person involved
- agreeing because the other person is abusing a position of trust, power, or authority
- unable to understand what they are consenting to
- under the age of consent.
The age that someone can consent to any kind of sexual contact varies slightly between states and territories in Australia. You can check which laws apply to your state or territory.