Child sexual abuse

Child sexual abuse is when an adult, a stronger child or a teenager involves a child in sexual activity.

Find out more about the signs of child sexual abuse.

What is normal sexual behaviour in children

Read the examples of normal sexual behaviour for different age groups.

How to protect a child from sexual abuse

You should always:

• know who is looking after your children
• listen to your children and believe what they say — children hardly ever make up stories about sexual abuse
• watch your child for signs of distress in a specific person’s company
• be aware of possible signs of grooming.

Find out more about how to protect a child from sexual abuse.

Get help and advice for child sexual abuse

In an emergency phone Triple Zero (000).

Phone your local police station about criminal matters related to child sexual abuse.

If you have reason to suspect a child is experiencing, or is at risk of, sexual abuse, find out how to report child abuse.

For general advice contact a Child Safety Service Centre or, for emergencies outside of business hours, contact the Child Safety After Hours Service Centre on 1800 177 135 (free call, Queensland only).

Find out more about getting help and advice for child sexual abuse.

Failing to report or protect children from sexual crimes

A new law makes it a crime not to report a reasonable belief of sexual offending against a child in the absence of a reasonable excuse. Find out more about failing to report sexual offences against children.

Myths and facts about child sexual abuse

Read some of the common myths about child sexual abuse, and the facts to help you understand the reality of child sexual abuse.