Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) will support young people to design and lead affirmative consent education efforts in communities across the Mallee and Eastern Metropolitan Melbourne, as part of a two-year initiative funded by the Victorian Government.
“In rural and regional communities, young people can often feel a lack of agency and control over sexual health-related issues, due to a lack of education and resources,” says Laura Crozier, local young person.
“Having us at the forefront of consent education will not only make it meaningful, but accessible and relevant to us.”
“Healthy relationships are important to a healthy future. Sexual violence not only affects young people’s physical health, but it also has impacts on mental health, education and employment,” says Katherine Ellis, YACVic CEO.
“We welcome this initiative to educate young people from all walks of life, not just those in the classroom, about affirmative consent and healthy relationships.”
‘Yeah Nah’ by YACVic will train five young peer educators in the Mallee to co-design resources and communications, and run workshops in local community settings.
YACVic partner agency Youth Disability Advocacy Service (YDAS) is supporting ‘Get the Go-ahead’ by Women’s Health East, which will educate and empower disabled young people on their rights and awareness around consent.
The projects are part of the Victorian Government’s $3.5 million investment to provide young people an early understanding of affirmative consent and how they can and must seek it as they become sexually active.
Media Contact: Katia Pellicciotta (she/her), YACVic Media and Communications Coordinator on 9267 3744 or KPellicciotta@YACVic.org.au
About Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic)
Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic) is the peak body and leading advocate for young people aged 12–25 and the youth sector in Victoria. Established in 1960, YACVic advocates for the rights of young people in Victoria to ensure they are active, visible and valued in their communities.