Australian Teacher Pleads Guilty to Sexually Abusing 15-Year-Old Student

NEWCASTLE, Australia — An Australian high school teacher, Karly Rae, pleaded guilty last month to sexually abusing a 15-year-old student, according to reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Rae, 37, who became a mother nearly eight weeks prior to her court appearance, admitted to engaging in sexual intercourse with the teenager in October 2024. She also pleaded guilty to charges including possession of child abuse material, grooming a child for unlawful sexual activity, and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Initially, Rae had pleaded not guilty to the charges in May but changed her plea last month. Her attorney requested that the court prioritize her case due to her recent childbirth, as she appeared in court with her 8-week-old baby.

Court documents obtained by ABC indicate that Rae and the 15-year-old communicated via social media platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram. The offenses reportedly took place in the suburbs of Bolton Point, Merewether, and Belmont, near Newcastle in New South Wales.

Messages presented as evidence included exchanges where Rae acknowledged the inappropriate nature of their contact. In one message, Rae wrote, “Hey, sorry for removing you on Snap. I found it too tempting for now.” The teenager later asked if they should cease contact, to which Rae responded, “It’s my fault. I take full responsibility. Do what you want/need.”

Further messages suggested plans to meet again, with Rae proposing, “Maybe we could have one last rendezvous before school goes back. I’ll bring my toy.”

The situation came to light when the teenager’s cousin saw the messages on Instagram and informed the boy’s parents, who then reported the matter to police.

Upon arrest, Rae reportedly told law enforcement she believed the teenager was of legal age and no longer attending school.

Rae was granted bail by the Supreme Court in June after informing the court of her pregnancy, although an earlier bail application had been denied.

Authorities continue to handle the case as Rae awaits further legal proceedings.