Young people invited to lead Bundaberg’s response to youth sexual violence prevention

IMPACT Community Services is inviting young people across Bundaberg to join a new Youth Committee established under the Bundaberg Youth Sexual Violence and Abuse (YSVA) Prevention Community Action Plan. The committee will help shape a youth-led initiative backed by the community and funded by the Queensland Government.

The initiative aims to promote respectful relationships, strengthen personal and online safety, reduce the risks and prevalence of youth sexual violence and abuse, and build the capacity of local organisations to respond safely and effectively.

The Community Action Plan was and will continue to be shaped through extensive co-design with young people, including First Nations people, community members, parents, caregivers and local sector stakeholders. This consultation highlighted the need for practical prevention initiatives focused on healthy relationships, consent, emotional wellbeing, online safety and help-seeking, alongside stronger support for families and frontline workers.

The rollout will be guided by youth-led, community-driven and culturally inclusive design principles, with young people helping shape implementation from the outset.

“Young people are at the heart of this work,” Staci Rae, Manager, Intensive Family Support, Bundaberg, said. “Their voices will guide how this plan is rolled out across Bundaberg. They know what feels safe, what matters, and how to reach their peers.”

The Youth Committee will help shape key elements of the rollout, including:

• community awareness materials and youth-friendly messaging
• creative and social media content that speaks directly to young people
• an online hub with information, resources and preventative education materials

Phase 2 is now underway and includes further co-design and delivery of an online information hub. Wide Bay Kids along with other community stakeholders will be co-designing a community awareness campaign, and training and development for sector stakeholders.

The initiative will also be supported by key partners who will lead co-design, digital development, cultural capability, counselling supports and capacity building.

“We know Bundaberg’s young people are passionate, creative and ready to lead,” Staci said. “This is their opportunity to shape change, influence their community, and help build safer spaces for themselves and their peers.”

Young people aged 12–25 who would like to join the Youth Committee are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest. Meetings will be held in safe, supportive environments with trained staff available. To apply, visit www.impact.org.au/ysvaEoi