It’s important for those who engage in BDSM to be aware of the distinction between harmless kink and violence. But it’s also important for BDSM not to be considered a de facto abusive practice.
When rape allegations are in the news, it can be a traumatic experience for survivors of past sexual violence. But there are ways to shield yourself from further trauma.
A study of child sexual abuse material survivors found 42% were abused by their father or stepfather, meaning abuse prevention and education services can’t assume all parents protect children in their care.
Criminal trials may hold offenders to account but they are far from perfect. The Victorian Law Reform Commission is looking at how restorative justice could be used for sexual offences.
Australia lacks standalone hazing legislation that clearly makes it the responsibility of universities, but courts here and overseas are increasingly likely to find them liable for the harm done.
Jean Vanier, Catholic founder of L'Arche International, allegedly had abusive sexual relationships. Religious tolerance for the veneration of male leaders may be partly to blame.
Many Aboriginal survivors of sexual abuse find mainstream counselling inappropriate. But there is a way to help them heal that respects a collective culture, with strong community ties.
The Rape-aXe ‘female condom’, anti-rape underwear and an anti-groping stamp are all now on the market. But they put the onus on women to protect themselves, rather than on men not to attack them.