Am I old enough to…?
Answers some age related questions in regards to sexual health.
...have sex?
The legal age to have sex in WA is 16 years old (this age varies between states). This applies to both guys and girls, regardless of who you are attracted to.
Remember, for sex to be legal, both partners must always consent – this means that you must both want to do it. Forcing someone to have sex against their will is a crime, as is taking advantage of someone if they’ve been taking drugs or drinking.
Laws around under-age sex apply to everyone, regardless of their gender.
If you are:
- under the age of 13 - no one is allowed to have sex with you (even if you say yes).
- between the ages of 13 and under 16 - a person is not allowed to have sex with you.
However, if you do have sex and the older person is charged, they could have a legal defence if:
- you gave consent and
- they believed you were 16 or older at the time and
- they are no more than 3 years older than you
- under the age of 18 - a person is not allowed to have sex with you if you are under their care, supervision or authority (even if you consent) eg a teacher or youth worker.
For more information about sex and relationships, check out Sex and the Law
For more information about sex and the law contact the Youth Legal Service (Inc) WA.
...go on the Pill?
A doctor can prescribe the Pill to you at any age, as long as they believe you are mature enough to understand what you are doing, and that you will take it properly.
For more information about the contraceptive pill, check out The Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill.
...buy condoms?
There is no age limit to buying condoms, and they are widely available from supermarkets, pharmacies and service stations, or at FPWA Sexual Health Services' clinics.
For more information about condoms, check out Male and Female Condoms.
...have an abortion?
If you are pregnant and considering abortion, it’s a good idea to talk over your options with a doctor or an FPWA Sexual Health Services' counsellor. Counselling sessions about unplannned pregnancy and post termination issues are subsidised by the Health Department of WA and you can access up to four free sessions for an annual client contribution fee of $15.00 (concession price).
If you are under 16 years of age and supported by a parent (usually meaning you live at home with them), a custodial parent must be informed that you are considering an abortion. While your parent needs to be given the opportunity to participate in the counselling process and in consultations between yourself and your doctor, the final decision is still made by you. You can apply to the Children’s Court for an order to proceed with an abortion without your parents knowing. For more information contact our helpline.
For more information about unplanned pregnancy, check out Help, I Think I’m Pregnant!
Page last updated Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:44
