Persons also need to be weary of the age of becoming an adult (age 18 in South Africa), where the parents of a child still has authority about what he or she may consent to whilst under age 18. The sex act must also be consensual between both parties. Generally the legal age of consent is considered to be age 16 and above for all genders and sexual orientations, but certain exceptions apply, including that of sex with someone with a mental disability and other factors. South Africa has a somewhat complex regulation when it comes to the legal age of consent for sex or any related sexual act. The ages of consent to sex (or any sexual act) in South Africa and their complications Introduction 3 Homosexuality (LGBTI) and gender discrimination.2 Mandatory reporting of sexual offences.1.10 Sex with someone mentally disabled.1.9 Ages 18 and above (and other related consequences).1 The ages of consent to sex (or any sexual act) in South Africa and their complications.
