A new framework surrounding consent has been unveiled by the federal government in a bid to provide more consistent messaging for young Australians.
It was developed alongside educators and experts in the space in order to have a unified definition and concept of what constitutes consent.
Five key concepts underpin the framework, including that consent is voluntary and free, specific and informed, affirmative and communicated, ongoing and mutual, as well as reflecting the capacity of individuals involved.
It will be provided to all federal government policies and programs specifically targeting young people, but will also be made available to other organisations in Australia.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said it was a crucial tool to help reduce rates of gender-based violence.
"The research does show that not having a clear understanding of consent can really lead to misinterpretation and indeed exacerbate sexual violence," Ms Rishworth told reporters in Adelaide on Saturday.
It's estimated one in five women and one in 16 men have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15.
For women, it's most likely to take place at the hands of their current or former partner.
"We need to ensure that we are turning that trend around," Ms Rishworth said.
"To do that we have to start by making sure that there is clear awareness and understanding with our young people."
It's expected the framework will be used by education providers, workplaces, sporting clubs or anyone working with young people.
It will also be used for major government initiatives such as a national consent campaigns and respectful relationship programs.
More than 40 experts and organisations were invited by the government to consult on the framework.
Among them was Teach Us Consent founder Chanel Contos, who said the framework would clearly define key concepts.
"The framework makes an important contribution to ensuring messaging around the fundamentals of consent are clear and cohesive," she said.
"It will help community leaders and organisations provide consistent messaging to youth as we take a whole-of-community approach to eradicating sexual violence."
National Association of Services Against Sexual Violence chair Nicole Lambert said messaging was crucial to reach younger generations effectively.
"Young people can sometimes end up with contradictory messaging about consent, which leads to further myths and misunderstandings about sexual violence," she said.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
Lifeline 13 11 14
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
