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Age of Consent Chart

The following is a chart outlining the Age of Consent laws in Canada.

The basic age of consent is 16, however there are some additional exemptions and protections to be aware of. Close in age exemptions have been defined for youth ages 12 to 15 to reflect the realities of peer experimentation in adolescent development. The Age of Consent chart details the peer age ranges that youth can legally consent to engaging in sexual activity with.

Note that while youth CAN legally consent to sexual activity at these ages, they may not choose to; consent must still be freely given, engaged, informed, and specific each time. There are also protections in place where there is a relationship of power or authority over a youth under 18.

A simple chart outlines the details of Age of Consent law for each age group: - No person under the age of 12 years can give consent to any sexual activity. - A 12 or 13 year old can consent to sexual activity as long as the partner is less than two years older. - A 14 or 15 year old can consent to sexual activity as long as the partner is less than five years older. - Youth 16 years of age and older can consent without age exceptions, however there are exceptions to protect vulnerable youth against power dynamics and sexual exploitation. - Youth ages 18+ are considered adults and subject to the same laws and protections as any other adults.

Did you know that it costs $50 a month to support one survivor?

KSAC provides healing, safety, and support to those affected by sexual violence and harm, and aims to end sexual violence through prevention education within our communities.

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Charitable Business Number: 107837528RR0001

People of All

Backgrounds, genders, sexualities, ages and abilities are treated with respect and dignity in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment at Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre.

24 Hour Crisis Support Line

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5 Phrases for Supporting a Disclosure

Supporting someone who is disclosing sexual assault or abuse can feel overwhelming, and it’s common for people to worry that they won’t know what to say, or that they’ll say the wrong thing. Know that the most important thing is to just listen, and have empathy for what the person is saying. That said, in this audio we explore five key phrases you can use for supporting a disclosure, so that you can feel more confident in your support skills.

For more educational videos from KSAC, visit our Learn Hub or the KSAC Youtube Channel.

Did you know that it costs $50 a month to support one survivor?

KSAC provides healing, safety, and support to those affected by sexual violence and harm, and aims to end sexual violence through prevention education within our communities.

Contact Us

24 Hour Crisis Support Line

Get Involved

Charitable Business Number: 107837528RR0001

People of All

Backgrounds, genders, sexualities, ages and abilities are treated with respect and dignity in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment at Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre.