Managing a disclosure of harmful sexual behaviour: for carers
This interactive resource is designed to support carers of children in out-of-home to prepare to respond to disclosures of harmful sexual behaviour with a step-by-step approach.
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Hosted on https://moodle.communities.wa.gov.au/file.php/1/PublicCourses/HSB/index.html • Opens in a new tab
How this resource can help
Use this resource to
Share with carers of children in out-of-home care, or parents and carers of children more generally
Download the posters to provide a visual reference to the steps set out in the resource
It covers
A step-by-step approach to providing a validating, supportive, safe response to a disclosure of harmful sexual behaviour – whether the disclosure is from a child who has experienced harm, or from a child who has displayed the harmful sexual behaviour
More information
This resource is part of a suite of modules developed by the Australian Centre for Child Protection (University of South Australia) with funding from the Western Australian Department of Communities. You can view all modules via this link.
Open this resource
Hosted on https://moodle.communities.wa.gov.au/file.php/1/PublicCourses/HSB/index.html • Opens in a new tab
If you are a carer
You’re in the right place. This resource is for you – it can help you work through appropriate steps to take when a child discloses harmful sexual behaviour to you. If you’re worried about something specific, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Last reviewed by Together We Can: 09 July 2026
What is problematic and harmful sexual behaviour
Problematic and harmful sexual behaviour affects children, families, and communities. Understanding it clearly is the first step toward effective prevention, recognition, and response.
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Parents and carers
If you’re a parent or carer seeking information or worrying about a behaviour, you're not alone. Find resources to help you understand child sexual development, support safety, and respond to concerns about sexual behaviour.
Children and young people
It’s normal to have questions about your body, feelings, sex and relationships. If you’re a young person looking for information – head here. We’ve got information just for you.