A definition of Sexuality

“Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life and encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviours, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.”
Source: World Health Organisation (WHO) Draft working definition, October 2002

Feelings, Behaviour & Identity

Our sexuality is that part of us that expressed through our sexual activities and relationships. It is represented in our feelings, behaviours and our sexual identity. A person’s sexuality can be homosexual, heterosexual, pansexual or bisexual. Every one expresses their sexuality differently with various levels of diversity or deviance from society’s expectations. Many people’s sexuality may change in different times of their lives.

Sexual Diversity

Sexual diversity comes in many forms. Everyone is different in how they choose to express their sexuality. More and more these days, people will not define their sexuality with a label, but choose to ‘take it as it comes’ or ‘do what feels right at the time’, trusting their feelings and not letting labels determine their choices. Other people feel strongly that they are only attracted to one gender and therefore identify as homosexual, lesbian or heterosexual. Many people feel a label or name for their sexuality is useful in describing themselves to others. Others don’t. The important thing is to do whatever feels right for you (so long as no-one will be unsafe or at risk) and identify however you feel comfortable. It’s OK to take your time figuring out what does feel right for you too. It’s OK to be unsure and it’s normal to be confused while you’re figuring things out.

Coming Out or Questioning your Sexuality?

If you are questioning your sexuality or coming out or looking for more info on sexual diversity , go to the Freedom Centre Website. Freedom Centre is a project of WAAC which provides a safe space, information, refferal and events for same sex attracted and gender diverse young people under 26. Contact Dani Wright, Freedom Centre Coordinator at info@freedom.org.au or contact us for more information. You might also find the following booklets useful: You're Not Alone (for young people coming out or questioning their sexuality or gender), and Someone You Love (for parents, family and friends).

Sexual Health & Sexuality

Sexual health is also an important part of our sexuality. See our What's Sexual Health All About info page for more about it. It can be hard to feel you have a good sexual health when society doesn’t seem to have a positive and respectful approach to your sexuality and when laws, social norms and/or cultures prevent all of our sexual rights from being respected, protected and fulfilled. Unfortunately we can’t snap our fingers and change this (though there’s plenty you can do in your community and activism to promote this change) but there are other things you can do to ensure you have the best possible sexual health.

See our Sexual Health page or FPWA Sexual Health Services website for more info on sexual health.