Communities and Justice

Factsheets

General knowledge

What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour?

This factsheet helps you understand how problematic and harmful sexual behaviour (PHSB) is defined, and why some behaviours are considered developmentally appropriate while others are deemed concerning or very concerning.  

What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour? (PDF, 3.2 MB)

Age appropriate sexual behaviours 

Sexual behaviours are a part of normal childhood development, with kids displaying their emerging sexuality in a range of ways. It's useful to understand age appropriate sexual behaviours, so those that are concerning can be identified.

Age appropriate sexual behaviours (PDF, 2.1 MB)

Pornography and kids

The majority of kids will, at some point, view pornography by accident or on purpose. This factsheet helps you understand how and why kids view pornography, and how to respond effectively. 

Pornography and kids (PDF, 2.4 MB)

Preventing PHSB

Preventing problematic and harmful sexual behaviour

All kids in out-of-home care benefit from skill building. The development of skills also increases protective factors that can prevent PHSB from occurring. 

Preventing problematic and harmful sexual behaviour (carers)  (PDF, 3.1 MB)

Having proactive conversations

This factsheet will support you to have supportive conversations with kids about sex and sexuality.

Having proactive conversations (carers) (PDF, 788.1 KB)

Responding to PHSB

Responding to problematic and harmful sexual behaviour

It  can be difficult to know how to respond when PHSB emerges. Knowing what to do, and being aware of your role, helps ensure that kids receive  appropriate supports. 

Responding to harmful sexual behaviour (carer) (PDF, 2.1 MB)

Last updated:

31 May 2024