La Trobe University researchers are calling on educators to share their experiences of teaching consent and respectful relationships to shape stronger national support.
Teachers are often at the frontline of delivering Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE), covering topics such as consent, respectful relationships, and protective behaviours. Yet despite the importance of this work, many educators face the challenge of teaching it with limited training, inconsistent resources, and variable support. For some, this can mean feeling underprepared, vulnerable to community criticism, or uncertain about how to respond when students disclose sensitive experiences.
A new national research project, led by La Trobe University’s Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, aims to change that. By capturing teachers’ real-world experiences – what works well, what doesn’t, and what support would make a difference – the study hopes to create a stronger foundation for teacher confidence, professional development, and workplace support.
Professor Jennifer Power, who is leading the research, says the study is designed to put teachers’ voices at the centre of discussions about how RSE is taught in Australian schools.
“Teachers carry a huge responsibility in this area, and we know many would like clearer guidance, consistent training, and stronger support networks. This project is about listening to educators and using their insights to shape national recommendations.”
The study builds on earlier national surveys conducted in 2010 and 2018, but it also reflects how much has changed in the past decade. Schools are now navigating new curriculum requirements, including mandatory consent education from Foundation to Year 10, as well as increasing concerns about the online environment.
For many teachers, these shifts have heightened the need for professional learning and system-level support. While RSE is vital for students’ wellbeing and safety, it can place teachers in difficult situations without adequate preparation. The research team hopes their findings will inform the development of a National Strategic Framework for an integrated approach to sexual health promotion – ensuring RSE is a supported, sustainable part of teachers’ professional practice.
How teachers can contribute
The project involves two complementary studies:
- A short anonymous survey (around 10 minutes) that explores how prepared and supported teachers feel when delivering RSE. This is open not only to practising teachers but also to pre-service teachers likely to deliver RSE in the future.
- In-depth interviews with teachers, health educators, and school leaders, providing deeper insights into the challenges and opportunities of teaching RSE.
Both studies are open to participants aged 18 or older who are living in Australia. Teachers who take part in interviews will receive a $70 reimbursement for their time, with all participation kept confidential.
While the ultimate goal of this research is to benefit students through stronger, more consistent RSE, the immediate focus is on the professional experience of educators. By contributing, teachers and school leaders can directly influence the supports and structures available across the system.
Professor Power stresses the importance of this input: “We know that RSE can be some of the most rewarding teaching educators do, but also some of the most challenging. By sharing your experiences, you can help create the kind of support that teachers really need.”
Findings from the study will feed into practical recommendations and policy development, including a proposed National Strategic Framework for sexual health promotion. Such a framework could provide schools with clearer guidance on RSE, more consistent training pathways, and stronger professional networks for teachers.
For educators, this represents an opportunity to make their voices heard and shape a more confident, sustainable approach to teaching consent, respectful relationships, and protective behaviours.
Teachers, health educators, and school leaders are encouraged to take part in the survey or register for an interview. By doing so, they not only support national research but also contribute to building a stronger, more supportive professional environment for all teachers delivering RSE.
Have your say
Complete the 10-minute anonymous survey: redcap.link/rseteacherssurvey.
Register for a confidential interview (with $70 reimbursement): redcap.link/rseteachersinterviews.
Both options close 31 December 2025.
