We provide legal information, counselling and befriender support. Sexual assault is never the fault of the victim, no matter what they were wearing, how they were behaving, how much they had to drink or their sexual history. Please note that some of these descriptions may be graphic or trigger an adverse reaction. Please be cautious as you read.
Even if no extra force is used, or someone submits to an attack or a threat, there may not be consent. It is still sexual assault. You can reach out to SACC to seek support if you have experienced any form of sexual assault or harrassment.
Some people wrongly think that only women can be sexually assaulted. In fact, anyone can be a victim or a perpetrator of sexual assault, and the experience can be equally traumatic, regardless of gender. Based on needs assessment, for long-term counselling support, we may refer you to a partner organisation. Do contact us for more information. Consent must be given freely, voluntarily, and actively to count.
There must be no threat, intimidation, pressure or guilt-tripping. All words, behaviour and circumstances are crucial to decide whether consent exists. Objection may be implied from the context and from the relationship of the parties. Consent to some sexual acts e. A person might also consent to sex at one point, but change their mind later. Alcohol or drugs may prevent someone from understanding a situation.
If someone is too drunk to make conscious, informed decisions, they cannot legally consent to any sexual activity. Persons under the age of 16 are legally unable to give consent. This means that even if a minor had said yes to sexual acts, the law still sees it as sexual assault. If the victim is a minor under the age of 14, the law carries a heavier punishment. Click here to learn more.
