Stopping harm before it starts is one of the most powerful levers for change. These sessions highlight programs that build resilience early, whether through body safety education in kindergartens, violence prevention in schools, or innovative online supports for young people. Each initiative shows how creativity and evidence can combine to prevent crises and strengthen families.
Upper Murray Family Care, presented by Miranda Cousins
A kindergarten-based program teaches body safety and gender equality through interactive sessions, boosting educator confidence and child engagement.
Key Message: Early prevention programs can shift norms and empower children – but require creative strategies for scalability and family engagement.
Quantum Support Services, presented by Tanya Hancock and Craig Legg
An evidence-based program helps adolescents at risk of violence build healthy relationships and emotional regulation through school partnerships.
Key Message: Trauma-informed, flexible interventions delivered in trusted settings can reduce violence and strengthen community resilience.
Anchor Community Care, presented by Leanne Nicholson and Leanne Moody
A co-designed pilot gave children experiencing homelessness a voice and dedicated therapeutic support, improving resilience and well-being.
Key Message: Child-centred design and trust-based engagement can break cycles of crisis and amplify children’s voices in service systems.
Jesuit Social Services, presented by Jackie Bateman
A national, anonymous online service for young people worried about sexual thoughts or behaviours, designed with youth input.
Key Message: Anonymous, strengths-based early intervention can prevent harm and empower young people to seek help safely.
