La Trobe University > Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society > Our work > Beyond 'The Talk'

Beyond 'The Talk'

Large colourful cartoon hands, palms raised in a supporting gesture

Supporting parents and carers to speak with children about sex, relationships and consent

2025

Jennifer Power, Thomas Norman, Alexandra James, Lily Moor, Braden Mercieca, Anita Dabrowski, Adrian Farrugia, Andrea Waling, Adam Bourne

This study aimed to identify what supports parents and carers to engage in conversations with their school-aged children (5–18 years) about sex, relationships, and consent. We examined the challenges and barriers parents face in initiating and sustaining meaningful conversations with their children on these topics, as well as the strategies they employ to encourage such discussions.

The study launched its findings in a report in September 2025:

Front cover of 'Beyond 'The Talk': Supporting parents and carers to speak with children about sex, relationships and consent', with the title, author names and a design of eight large colourful cartoon hands held up in a supportive position Download Beyond 'The Talk': Supporting parents and carers to speak with children about sex, relationships and consent

(Embargoed until 15 September 2025)

Funding and partners

This project was funded by the Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, and has been supported by a team of community partners. We are grateful to Sexual Health Victoria, True QLD, SHINE SA, Sexual Health Quarters WA, Family Planning Tasmania, Family Planning Welfare Association NT, and the Sexual and Reproductive Health Australia (formerly Family Planning Alliance of Australia) for strategic input and support for the project. We acknowledge contributions from Adjunct Professor Suzanne Fraser and Associate Professor Christopher Fisher.