Definitions
HELPING TO BETTER UNDERSTAND TERMS USED IN THIS RESOURCE
These definitions explain words used on this page and what they mean. They are here to help make the information easier to understand.
- Abuse: Abuse can take many non-violent forms, including emotional, financial, technological and spiritual tactics that cause deep psychological harm.
- Consent: All state and territory laws require consent to sexual activity be either “freely and voluntarily given” or that consent involves “free” or “free and voluntary” agreement. However, legal definitions of consent vary between Australian state and territory jurisdictions. There are ongoing reforms in a number of states and territories to amend the definition of consent to require affirmative communication of consent.
- Perpetrator: Refers to a person who commits an illegal, criminal or harmful act, including domestic, family or sexual violence.
- Violence: Violence is often physical and can occur between strangers or acquaintances, while abuse involves a pattern of power and control - often without physical violence - within close relationships.
This resource was developed in partnership with Full Stop Australia and the NSW Women's Safety Commissioner and reflects law, policy and practice current at August 2026. For support, contact the NSW Sexual Violence Helpline on 1800 424 017, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
