Why is sexuality education important?

Teachers and other educators can help young people grow into strong and confident adults.

The information in this section is intended to assist educators to deliver age-and-culturally-appropriate relationships and sexuality education to young Aboriginal people.

National survey data (Ward et al., 2020) shows that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people begin exploring intimate relationships around age 16, similar to their peers across Australia. Young people also highlight the value of having culturally relevant, community‑led information to guide their decision‑making. 

By building on community strengths, knowledge systems and cultural practices, educators can help support the wellbeing of young people, their families and their communities. The Western Australian Department of Health recognises school‑based relationships and sexuality education as an important part of this work. 

Effective programs have been shown to:

• strengthen adolescents’ confidence and decision‑making

• delay the onset of sexual activity

• increase contraceptive use among sexually active adolescents

• help prevent teenage pregnancy and STIs

• create safe spaces for young people to learn about relationships and sexual health outside the home.