A new report from Our Watch and The University of Melbourne’s Youth Research Collective has found young people are being exposed to risks of harm, violence and unwanted sexual experiences from an early age.
With young people navigating relationships earlier than ever, the findings have revealed relationship experiences can begin from as young as 10 years old. Nearly 1 in 3 young people who have had sex report experiencing unwanted sex, sometimes before the age of 14.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732
Image: Image: Pexels/ Karola G
Produced By: Fiona Bartholomaeus
Featured In Story: Claudia Bedford – Family and Intimate Partner Violence Primary Prevention Program Co-ordinator, Youth Affairs Council of WA, and Aimee Telford – Youth Peer Educator, Youth Affairs Council of WA
First aired on The Wire, Monday 13 July 2026