Is it illegal for a 15 year old to date a 17 year old in Australia?
Asked by: Prof. Jamarcus Hoeger V | Last update: June 26, 2026Score: 4.2/5 (22 votes)
It is generally not illegal for a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old to date in Australia. However, sexual activity between them can be unlawful depending on the state, as the age of consent is 16 (or 17 in some states). Many states allow a "close-in-age" defence if the 17-year-old is not in a position of authority.
Is it okay for a 15 year old to date a 17 year old?
A two-year age gap between a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old is generally considered normal and socially acceptable by many, provided there is mutual respect and no power imbalance. However, it is crucial to be aware of local laws regarding the age of consent, which can make certain physical actions illegal in some areas.
Are you a minor at 17 in Australia?
About legal age in Australia
As your child grows up and becomes more independent, you might be wondering how old they need to be before they can do certain things. In Australia, you're considered to be an adult when you turn 18 years old.
Can a 15 year old date an 18 year old in NSW?
Sexual activity involving someone under 16 is prohibited, and there are no specific close-in-age exceptions. Individuals aged 16 and over may consent to sexual activity with adults of any age, provided there is no power imbalance or relationship of supervision.
What is the age limit for dating in Australia?
Sexual consent laws
The age of sexual consent across Australia is 16 years of age, except for Tasmania and South Australia, where it's 17. Being able to give consent means you can say yes or no willingly. Adults and teenagers alike must understand that a person cannot consent if they are: under 16 (or 17 in S.A or Tas)
Is it legal for an 18 year old to date a 16 year old?
Is 15 and 17 legal in the US?
Each U.S. state has its own general age of consent. As of August 1, 2018, the age of consent in each state in the United States is either 16 years of age, 17 years of age, or 18 years of age. The most common age of consent is 16, which is a common age of consent in most other Western countries.
What is the oldest a 17 year old can date?
While legal age limits vary by location (often 18 or 19 to be considered an adult), a 17-year-old generally can safely and legally date someone up to roughly 19–21 years old. Many regions have "Romeo and Juliet" laws that allow for small age gaps (usually 3–4 years) when one person is a minor, but intimate acts with someone 21+ can pose legal risks in certain jurisdictions.
How do you say "hi" in Australian?
The most iconic way to say hi in Australia is "G'day" (pronounced guh-day), often followed by "mate" (G'day mate). It is a friendly, universal greeting used day or night. Other common, informal Australian greetings include "How ya goin'?" (How are you?), "Hey," or simply "How's it going?".
What is the legal age of consent in Australia?
The age of consent is: 16 years for ACT, NSW, NT, Qld, Vic and WA. 17 years for SA and Tas.
What ages can 15 year olds date?
For a 15-year-old, the recommended dating age range is usually within 1–2 years of their own age (e.g., 14 to 17) to ensure similar maturity levels. Many experts and parents suggest 16 as an appropriate age for one-on-one, "solo" dating, while younger teens often engage in group dating.
Is a 3 year age gap ok for dating?
A 3-year age gap is generally not considered bad in dating and is often seen as a normal, manageable difference, especially among adults. The success of the relationship depends more on shared maturity, life stages, and mutual respect rather than the number itself.
What age is a teenager?
A teenager is defined as a person between the ages of 13 and 19 years old. The term refers to the English naming convention for these ages, which all end in "teen" (thirteen to nineteen), marking the transition period between childhood and adulthood.
Is it illegal to date a 17 year old?
Dating a 17-year-old is generally not illegal if the relationship is non-sexual. However, if the other person is an adult (18+), sexual activity can be illegal depending on state [statutory rape laws], as 12 U.S. states set the age of consent at 18, while others allow it at 16 or 17.
Can a 15 year old kiss a 17 year old in NSW?
In New South Wales, a person can legally consent to sexual activity once they are 16 years of age. A person who is under 16 years of age cannot lawfully consent to sexual activity, whether it be kissing, touching or sexual intercourse.
How old can a 17 year old date in Australia?
If you are 17 years old and above, you can legally engage in sexual acts with another person who is 17 years or older, as long as you both agree to it.