This Theory of Change outlines the pathways through which the “I Respect” program aims to achieve its vision of creating safer and more resilient communities by empowering young people and promoting positive change at individual, community, and systemic levels.
At Darwin Youth Services, we believe every young person deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued.
Founded and led by Sarah Austin, we deliver evidence-based, culturally sensitive programs across the Northern Territory that prevent domestic and family violence before it starts. We work alongside schools, communities, and agencies to empower young people with the knowledge and skills they need to build healthy relationships and strong futures.
Growing up, I was surrounded by Domestic and Family Violence without even realising that’s what it was. No one talked about it, and there weren’t the words or tools to understand what was happening. This is why I’m passionate about providing young people, educators, school staff, and support services with evidence-based, age-appropriate education that builds understanding of what respect looks like, what isn’t okay, and how to seek support when needed.
By equipping communities with the knowledge and real skills to foster safe, healthy relationships early, we can change futures – and that’s what drives our work at Darwin Youth Services.
Our I Respect and Girl Speak programs have reached hundreds of young people across urban and remote communities, sparking conversations that change lives. Our Myths & Facts cards, Respect Jenga, and body autonomy resources are used by Team Health, NT Health, Sexual Assault Counselling Services, Territory Families, Corrections, and private practising counsellors, social workers, and teachers across the NT to support safe, respectful conversations in classrooms and community settings.
We also sell a range of practical, engaging resources that support early intervention and prevention education. All our resources are designed, printed, and made in Darwin in partnership with Colemans Printing, ensuring they are local, durable, and relevant. We work closely with local service providers to ensure our resources are culturally appropriate and aligned with the NT Curriculum, making them practical tools for schools, community programs, and family settings.
Our team brings warmth, professionalism, and real-life experience to every workshop we run. We are passionate about early intervention and prevention and take pride in creating engaging, interactive spaces where young people feel heard.
Our I Respect and Girl Speak programs have reached hundreds of young people across urban and remote communities, sparking conversations that change lives. Our Myths & Facts cards, Respect Jenga, and body autonomy resources are used by Team Health, NT Health, Sexual Assault Counselling Services, Territory Families, Corrections, and private practising counsellors, social workers, and teachers across the NT to support safe, respectful conversations in classrooms and community settings.
We also sell a range of practical, engaging resources that support early intervention and prevention education. All our resources are designed, printed, and made in Darwin in partnership with Colemans Printing, ensuring they are local, durable, and relevant. We work closely with local service providers to ensure our resources are culturally appropriate and aligned with the NT Curriculum, making them practical tools for schools, community programs, and family settings.
Our team brings warmth, professionalism, and real-life experience to every workshop we run. We are passionate about early intervention and prevention and take pride in creating engaging, interactive spaces where young people feel heard.
To create safer and more resilient communities in the Northern Territory by empowering young people to challenge harmful beliefs and behaviours, promote healthy relationships, and prevent Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence (DFSV).
Our aim is to increase awareness and knowledge among young people regarding Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence (DFSV) prevention and intervention strategies. We aim to improve attitudes towards gender roles and relationships, challenging harmful stereotypes and promoting respect and equality.
Empowerment, Kindness, Authenticity and Empathy.
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Created by: Aurelza