How Australians Are Redefining Sex in 2025: Insights from the Durex Survey

01/06/2025, Adults Villa
Are You Having More Sex Than You Think? The Changing Definition of Sex in Australia Revealed by Durex 2025 Survey

It might come as a surprise, but chances are you’re having more sex than you realize. How can that be? Well, it all comes down to how we define “sex” — and according to the latest findings from the Durex 2025 Australian Sex Survey, the meaning of sexual intercourse is becoming delightfully more expansive and fluid.

Expanding the Definition of Sex

Gone are the days when sex was defined narrowly as just vaginal intercourse. Australians today are embracing a broader, more inclusive understanding of what counts as sex. The survey shows a remarkable shift: intimate touching is now considered sex by 61% of respondents, almost double the 31% recorded in 2017. Mutual masturbation with a partner is acknowledged by 57%, up from 30%, and using sex toys during partnered play is recognized by 58%, soaring from a mere 18% less than a decade ago.

Even solo activities are getting rebranded in the collective mindset. Around 35% of Australians now include masturbation within their personal definition of sex, while 30% count using a sex toy alone as part of their sexual repertoire. This broader definition naturally bumps up how often people say they’re having sex, painting a more vibrant and diverse picture of sexual activity nationwide.

Tasmania: The Sexual Hotspot

If you’re wondering where Australians are getting busy the most, look no further than Tasmania. The survey dubs its residents the “Tasmanian Devils” for good reason — they’re having sex an average of 1.9 times per week, well above the national average of 1.4 times. Fresh air, scenic views, or just a robust sex culture? Maybe all three.

Tasmanians are also leading in bedroom confidence and pleasure, with 58% reporting increased satisfaction over the past five years, and a remarkable 71% feeling more comfortable and confident during sex — again, far above the national averages. In contrast, those in the Northern Territory report the lowest average frequency of sexual activity, at 0.7 times weekly.

The Gap Between Pleasure and Protection

Despite the growing openness and pleasure, the survey flags some concerning trends around sexual health and safety. While 89% of Australians say they know how to avoid pregnancy and STIs, many are still taking risks. About one-third of singles didn’t use any form of protection in the past year, and 11% relied on the withdrawal method, which offers limited protection. Male condoms were used by only 31% of respondents — a number that signals room for improvement in safe sex practices.

What’s Fueling This Sexual Renaissance?

When asked about the drivers behind this evolving sexual landscape, one factor stood out: increased visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community, cited by 32% of participants. This makes perfect sense, as queer communities have long challenged traditional sexual norms, creating space for exploration and openness.

The survey confirms that queer individuals are leading the way in sexual exploration — 81% of gay or lesbian respondents and 80% of bisexual individuals reported trying new sex acts or positions, compared to 55% of heterosexual respondents. They’re also more likely to openly discuss their sex lives (71% vs 54%) and experience rising sexual satisfaction (58% vs 49%).

Selina Nguyen, a respected sex and relationship therapist, explains:
“The beauty and pleasure is in sexual diversity. As we become more exposed to diverse conversations about sex, we see what’s possible, and we feel empowered to explore it. Queer communities have been reimagining what sex looks like beyond traditional scripts, inviting everyone to do the same.”

What This Means for All of Us

The Durex 2025 survey is a reminder that sex isn’t a fixed concept — it’s evolving with our experiences, identities, and cultural shifts. Whether it’s intimate touching, mutual masturbation, or solo play with toys, Australians are redefining pleasure on their own terms. But while embracing this diversity, the importance of safe sex remains paramount. Knowing how to protect yourself and your partners is key to enjoying all the benefits of a vibrant sex life with confidence and health.

For the readers of Adults Villa, this survey offers a fresh lens through which to view your own sexual experiences. Maybe it’s time to rethink your own definition of sex, explore new pleasures, and—most importantly—stay safe and satisfied.