Signs of a healthy relationship

Healthy relationships are important. They remind us that we are valued and allow us to share the joys and challenges of life with others. 

You have the right to feel respected and safe in your relationships, including with:

• Boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, husbands or wives
• Ex-boyfriends, ex-girlfriends, ex-partners, ex-husbands or ex-wives
• Carers and paid support workers
• Parents, guardians and other family members
• Adult children
• People you work with
• Other people you live with or see often, whether inside or outside the place you live.

It is not healthy for any of these people to control you or cause you to live in fear.

A healthy relationship brings more happiness than sadness or stress. The other person doesn’t scare you and you can talk openly about your feelings.

A healthy relationship gives you freedom to:

• See family and friends
• Go out without the other person
• Control your own money
• Make decisions about your body
• Make decisions about your work, friends and where you live
• Have your own hobbies and interests
• Follow your own cultural practices, religion or spiritual beliefs.

 A healthy relationship is not abusive, meaning you:

• Communicate with each other with respect
• Are not scared to be honest about how you feel
• Feel safe
• Can say no to sex.

 A healthy relationship is respectful, meaning you:

• Listen to each other’s opinions and feelings
• Are able to celebrate achievements
• Don't insult or abuse each other when arguing
• Don't force each other to do things you don’t want to do
• Don't control or manipulate each other.

Relationship behaviour that is abusive is never OK and may be domestic and family violence or sexual violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit our website for online chat and video call services.