The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.S.30 Sexual abuse

Definition

Sexual abuse of a child is when someone involves a person under the age of 18 in sexual activities that they do not understand, or that are against accepted community standards.

Child sexual abuse may include (but is not limited to):

  • sexual touching of any part of the body, either clothed or unclothed
  • preparing or encouraging a child to engage in sexual activity
  • sex of any kind with a child
  • persuading or forcing a child to engage in sexual activity
  • sexual acts done by an adult of any gender, to a child of any gender.

The Independent Decision Maker (1.1.I.10) will consider a range of factors to decide if an institution is responsible for the abuser having contact with a child.

Act reference: NRSAct section 6 The Dictionary

Policy reference: Redress Guide Part 3 Eligibility & entitlement to redress, 7.7 Determining when an institution is responsible

Last reviewed: