Funding from the Federal Government is being rolled out to support the delivery of evidenced-based, age‑appropriate and expert-developed respectful relationships education in schools across the country.
The government will provide $77.6 million to states and territories and the non‑government school sector to deliver the education programs in schools across Australia.
Funding will support the delivery of age-appropriate consent and respectful relationships education programs, partnerships between schools and expert organisations, engagement with families, and access to professional development for teachers.
States and territories and the non-government school sector will decide how to invest this funding in order to best meet local needs.
First-year funding is being provided from June-August 2024, with each jurisdiction receiving over the next five years:
New South Wales: $25,440,396
Victoria: $18,350,973
Queensland: $14,346,689
Western Australia: $8,967,679
South Australia: $5,770,646
Tasmania: $2,078,072
Northern Territory: $1,550,561
Australian Capital Territory: $1,094,984
Implementation of the respectful relationships education activities will be guided by the National Respectful Relationships Education Expert Working Group.
The program promotes healthy interactions between boys and girls and is a key measure in the First Action Plan that underpins the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032 in addition to a $3.4 billion investment in women’s safety over three Budgets.
Respectful relationships education complements the government’s national consent campaign, launched in May, which helps adults be informed and understand consent so that they feel comfortable and confident having conversations with young people.
It also complements the latest phase of the Stop It At The Start campaign, designed to combat misogynistic attitudes and influences online.
Along with states and territories, the Albanese Government is committed to ending gender-based violence in one generation.
One in five women and one in 16 men in Australia have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15, Minister for Education Jason Clare said.
“Sexual violence is a national shame. A range of approaches are needed, and there is a role to play in the classroom to make sure that young people develop healthy relationships,” Mr Clare said.
“This investment is important in making sure we help our youngest Australians, in particular young boys and men, to have healthy, respectful relationships.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, chat online via www.1800respect.org.au or text 0458 737 732.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit ntv.org.au.
