Sexual abuse is any sexual activity that a person does not consent to or is unable to give knowing consent. It can involve physical contact or non-physical actions that violate a person's rights and dignity.
Who may be at risk of sexual abuse
- people living with disability
- people who rely on others for care or support
- people who are socially isolated, living in supported accommodation, or dependent on carers, family, or service providers
- people who have previously experienced trauma or abuse.
What sexual abuse can look like
Physical acts
- unwanted sexual touching, kissing, or groping
- sexual assault or rape
- coerced sexual activity under threat, manipulation, or pressure
- performing sexual acts on a person without their understanding or agreement.
Non-physical acts
- sexualised language, jokes, or comments
- inappropriate exposure or being made to watch sexual acts or materials
- taking or sharing sexual images without consent
- observing a person in private situations (such as showering, dressing)
- forcing someone to undress or touch another person.
How to identify signs of sexual abuse
Some signs may be visible, others more subtle. Watch for:
Physical signs
- unexplained bruising, bleeding, or pain in genital or anal areas
- sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- torn or bloody underwear
- difficulty walking or sitting
- frequent urinary tract infections or genital discomfort.
Emotional and behavioural signs
- sudden or unexplained fear, anxiety, depression, or withdrawal
- fear of specific individuals
- refusal to be bathed or undressed
- inappropriate sexual behaviour or comments (especially in people who previously did not display them)
- nightmares or sleep disturbances
- self-harm.
What to do if you suspect sexual abuse
If someone is in immediate danger, phone emergency services 000 (triple zero).
To report a crime that has already been committed phone the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
If you are a NDIS provider or aged care worker:
Report it within your organisation, following your safeguarding or incident policy.
Make a mandatory report to:
- the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, if the person is a NDIS participant
- the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission, if person is in aged care.
Work with adult to plan next steps
If safe, speak with the person actively listen without interruption, be non-judgemental and show you believe the person.
Assist the person to access required services:
- medical and forensic help
- police assistance
- advocacy and legal support
- counselling or trauma services.
Refer to the contacts for adult safeguarding assistance page for more information about who to contact.
Remain engaged and continue to provide support and monitor wellbeing.
If you are unsure whether someone is experiencing sexual abuse
Sometimes it can be difficult to know whether someone has experienced sexual abuse (for example, where a person has communication difficulties).
- Document what you have observed (date, details, changes in behaviour or appearance).
- Discuss this situation with your manager.
- Actively monitor the situation and continue to document your observations.
- Contact the Adult Safeguarding Unit for information, advice and support.
If you need further advice or support
The Adult Safeguarding Unit can provide free, confidential information, advice and support.
Phone 1800 372 310 (9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday)
Email adultsafeguardingunit@sa.gov.au
Website adultsafeguardingunit.sa.gov.au
Other support services can be found on our contacts for adult safeguarding assistance page.
Printable version of this guide
Guide for service providers - understanding and responding to sexual abuse (PDF 137.0 KB)