From Wednesday, 1 June, affirmative sexual consent has been legally required in New South Wales.
The University of Wollongong stands by the new consent laws coming into effect and is taking action to further address the harmful attitudes that continue to contribute to non-consensual sexual activity.
In response to student feedback, UOW is currently moving to make the Consent Matters Module mandatory in the second half of this year. If you haven’t already completed this module, you can take part here.
The training covers sexual consent, communication in relationships, and bystander intervention. This course is designed to help you understand what consent looks like and identify situations where it can’t be given.
What is affirmative consent?
Consent must be communicated in words and actions. You cannot assume someone is consenting just because they haven’t said no - you must do or say something to check. Asking directly for consent is the best way to ensure everyone feels comfortable.
So, just ask:
- “Is this okay?”
- “Can I kiss you?”
- “Do you want to try ___?”
- “Want me to keep going?”
- “How does that feel?”
To learn more about affirmative consent, watch the videos released by the NSW Government as part of the #MakeNoDoubt campaign.
Reporting and support
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you’re not alone.
UOW’s Safe and Respectful Communities team (SARC) is here to support students who have witnessed or experienced sexual assault, harassment, domestic and family violence, bullying or discrimination.