Child sexual abuse is defined as sexual contact ranging from fondling to penetration, by someone who is 5 or more years older than the survivor.

Children exposed to sexual abuse are at risk of profound and ongoing effects on their childhood, adolescence and adult development. If not able to access help straight away, then there can be complex and long lasting effects.

It is important to seek help from a professional psychologist or psychotherapist who is experienced and specially trained in working with the effects of child sexual abuse.

The ACC Sensitive Claims Unit can often help fund the counselling.