I Respect Project Overview

Program Theory

“I Respect” aims to address the alarming rates of Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence (DFSV) in the Northern Territory by providing comprehensive psychoeducation and preven-tion through collaborative, culturally sensitive sessions.

The program’s theory is grounded in evidence showing the urgent need for intervention, as highlighted by Acting Deputy Commissioner White and echoed by community consulta-tions. By engaging young men, particularly Indigenous youth, in discussions about healthy relationships and respectful manhood, “I Respect” seeks to challenge gender stereotypes, promote consent education, and foster a culture of respect within communities.

The program’s effectiveness is supported by its tailored approach, leveraging the expertise of both an experienced female Domestic and Family Violence Counsellor and a young Indigenous male facilitator.

Through nine sessions, participants explore crucial topics such as consent, coercion, and fostering healthy relationships. By delivering the program in a circle format and encourag-ing ongoing conversations, the aim is to create a safe space where participants feel empowered to challenge harmful beliefs and behaviours.

Critical to the program’s success is its alignment with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strategic frameworks, as well as extensive community consultations to ensure cultural relevance and inclusivity. By actively involving elders and community members, “I Respect” aims to break the cycle of violence by addressing systemic issues and providing targeted support to at-risk youth.

The intended impact of the program is to prevent and intervene early in DFSV by empower-ing children and young people with the knowledge and skills to recognise and address harmful behaviours.

By targeting schools and communities across the Top End, including remote areas with limited resources, “I Respect” aims to mitigate the geographical barriers that exacerbate experiences of violence.

Through culturally competent facilitation and ongoing collaboration with local stakehold-ers, the program seeks to drive meaningful behaviour change and contribute to creating safer, more resilient communities.

Theory of Change for the "I Respect" Program

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.

Vision Statement: To create safer and more resilient Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 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).

Assumptions

1. Education leads to empowerment:

Providing comprehensive psychoeducation on con-sent, coercion, and healthy relationships will empower young people to recognise and challenge harmful behaviours, thereby reducing incidents of DFSV.

2. Cultural relevance enhances engagement:

Integrating cultural considerations into program content and delivery will enhance engagement and trust among participants, leading to greater receptiveness and uptake of violence prevention strategies.

3. Positive mentorship fosters resilience:

Promoting positive mentor relationships within communities will provide ongoing support and guidance to young people, fostering resilience and promoting a culture of mutual respect and care.

4. Community collaboration drives systemic change:

Engaging with local stakeholders, including elders and community members, will build trust, gather valuable insights, and mobilise support for violence prevention efforts, driving systemic change within communi-ties.

Pathways of Change

1. Increased Awareness and Knowledge:

By delivering a nine-session program covering crucial topics such as consent, coercion, and healthy relationships, participants will gain a deeper understanding of DFSV prevention and intervention strategies.

2. Shift in Attitudes and Behaviours:

Through open dialogue and reﬂection, participants will challenge harmful stereotypes and attitudes towards gender roles and relationships, foster-ing a culture of respect, equality, and non-violence.

3. Empowerment and Agency:

Participants will feel empowered to recognise and address DFSV within their communities, drawing upon newfound knowledge and skills to advocate for change and support those in need.

4. Community Resilience and Support Networks:

By promoting positive mentor relationships and promoting collaboration with local stakeholders, communities will strengthen their support networks and resilience, creating safer environments for individuals and families.

Long-Term Impact

Reduction in incidents of DFSV among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and adults
Enhanced safety and well-being of individuals and families in communities across the Northern Territory
Contribution to systemic change by addressing gaps in DFSV prevention and intervention through culturally sensitive and community-driven approaches

Program Logic Model – “I Respect”

This model illustrates how the inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact of the “I Respect” program work together to address DFSV and promote healthy relationships within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the Northern Territory.

1. Inputs

Funding from the Australian Government Department of Social Services
Expertise and training of program facilitators (experienced female Domestic and Family Violence Counsellor and young Indigenous male co-facilitator)
Community input and feedback from extensive consultations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander elders and community members
Curriculum aligned with Northern Territory educational standards

2. Activities

Delivery of a nine-session program covering topics such as consent, coercion, and healthy relationships
Customisation of program delivery to suit diverse environments and individual needs
Integration of cultural considerations into program content and delivery
Promotion of positive mentor relationships among teenagers
Language accessibility through trained facilitators who can speak multiple languages
Collaboration with local stakeholders, including land councils, elders, and community members

3. Outputs

Completion of nine program sessions by participants
Increased understanding of consent, coercion, and healthy relationships among young people
Establishment of supportive mentor relationships within communities
Language-accessible program delivery in regions with diverse linguistic backgrounds
Enhanced community engagement and collaboration in violence prevention efforts

4. Outcomes

Increased awareness and knowledge among participants regarding Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence (DFSV) prevention and intervention strategies
Improved attitudes towards gender roles and relationships, challenging harmful stereo-types and promoting respect and equality
Empowerment of young people to recognise and address DFSV within their communities
Strengthened community cohesion and support networks through positive mentorship and collaboration

5. Impact

Reduction in incidents of DFSV among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth and adults
Enhanced safety and well-being of individuals and families in communities across the Northern Territory
Contribution to systemic change by addressing gaps in DFSV prevention and intervention through culturally sensitive and community-driven approaches