Understanding and communicating affirmative consent is essential to building a safer, more respectful community. Yet, it remains a topic that can be misunderstood and stigmatised. To help shift the conversation, a panel discussion will be held this Wednesday, 10 September, aimed at promoting open dialogue and improving awareness around consent.
Members of the community are invited to attend a panel discussion at the University of Canberra Refectory this Wednesday at 3:30pm, where speakers will explore the ACT's consent laws and discuss how to break down barriers to practising and talking about affirmative consent.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, Dr Marisa Paterson MLA, will facilitate a panel discussion featuring:
- CEO of the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, Tiffany Karlsson.
- Executive Director of A Gender Agenda, Dr Vik Fraser.
- Manager, Justice Transitions and Violence Prevention Services, EveryMan Canberra, Josh Hewitt.
The discussion will focus on the importance of affirmative consent, the social norms and gendered stereotypes that create barriers to practising it, and strategies to normalise conversations about consent so that individuals feel more comfortable and confident discussing it with their sexual partners.
In July this year, the ACT Government launched an affirmative consent public awareness campaign aimed at increasing community understanding of the ACT's affirmative consent model and empowering individuals to seek, give, or withdraw consent before and during sexual activity.
Under the ACT's affirmative consent model, consent must be free and not forced; shown in words or actions; ongoing and shared; and from someone who is able to say yes. All parties must be clear about what will happen.
Minister Paterson highlighted the vital role of open conversation and education in preventing sexual violence within the community.
"Everyone should feel safe and respected in their relationships. Moving to an affirmative consent model has been an important step in responding to sexual violence in the Territory. The recent public awareness campaign and upcoming panel discussion are also critical ways that we can embed knowledge about consent in our community," Minister Paterson said.
"Conversations are one of the most powerful ways to change behaviours, beliefs, and attitudes, which is why talking about affirmative consent is so meaningful. This free event is a chance to ask questions and get the answers our community needs to be informed. I also encourage everyone to check out the affirmative consent website (www.act.gov.au/consent) and share the information and resources with your family and friends."
