Student sexual misconduct reports doubled in NSW schools since 2019
Primary schools recorded 8,901 of the 17,546 reported incidents of student sexual misconduct.
NSW public schools recorded 17,546 reports of student sexual misconduct between 2019 and 2024. Reported incidents more than doubled, rising from 1,842 in 2019 to 3,945 in 2024.
Primary schools accounted for the highest number of reports. Advocates warn some children are suffering trauma.
They call for better consent and respectful relationships education starting in primary school. The federal government is pursuing Digital Duty of Care laws.
These would hold tech platforms accountable for online harms to young people. Experts say online influences cannot be separated from harmful behaviour occurring in classrooms and schoolyards.
- 17,546
- Total reports 2019-2024
- 8,901
- Reports in primary schools
- 1,842
- Reports in 2019
- 3,945
- Reports in 2024
Why it mattersSchools are increasingly expected to manage complex sexual harm issues. This raises questions about adequate support for victims and prevention.
AustraliaThe figures reveal student sexual misconduct is widespread across Australian schools, prompting calls for better consent education and online regulation.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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