21/11/2025
Let's start talking about this more! I used to think consent was about touch and s*x. Recently I've come to understand it's about all the interactions we have with others.
Consent is an important part of building safe, respectful, and healthy relationships. Talking about consent may feel uncomfortable or daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Having conversations about consent helps create safe spaces for our partners, friends, and loved ones.
Here are some key elements to keep in mind when talking about consent:
• Communication. Consent is an ongoing conversation. It must be discussed and agreed upon before every s*xual activity. Be honest about what you want, clearly express what you are or are not comfortable with and respect the other person’s boundaries.
• Ongoing and mutual consent. Consent is never “one and done.” Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and it’s okay to change your mind. Regularly check in with your partner, as past consent does not mean future consent. Everyone involved must genuinely want to participate.
• Capacity to consent. A person cannot give consent if they are unconscious, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or being pressured or coerced. If you’re not sure whether someone has the capacity to consent, stop and check in, and if you’re still in doubt, stop. It is important to remember drugs and alcohol can impair someone’s ability to understand or communicate their choices, they may not know what they are agreeing to, or they may not be able to clearly communicate what they want.
👉 Learn more about consent and how to talk about it at www.qld.gov.au/consent
[Image description: blue background with white text saying 'consent is... free and voluntary, specific and informed, ongoing and mutual and reflects capacity'. Blue ticks are used as dot points. At the bottom of the image is says 'Learn more at qld.gov.au/consent'.]