Victorian students will learn to recognise and respond to toxic masculinity, hate speech and coercive control online – with new Respectful Relationships resources being rolled out to schools across the state.

The new resources will give students the skills to counter the influence of Andrew Tate-types, helping them safely navigate issues like consent, sextortion, pornography and gender-based bullying.

More non-government schools are also being invited to join over 1,950 Victorian government, Catholic and independent schools, including over 370 non-government schools already signed up to the initiative.

These schools can join via a new Expression of Interest process launched today, with support including startup funding, implementation guidance and professional learning.

Developed by education experts Professor Helen Cahill and Associate Professor Debbie Ollis in consultation with teachers, students and parents – the new contemporary materials will help young people stay safe online and in real life. We’re giving parents and carers peace of mind too – delivering advice and resources from trusted sources.

Since 2016, the Labor Government has invested $129 million to deliver the Respectful Relationships curriculum in our schools. Further investment of $7.8 million, announced as part of the Women’s Safety Package, has supported this expansion of Respectful Relationships.

Our landmark Women’s Safety Package is driving action at every stage to prevent and respond to gender-based violence: better responding to victims when violence occurs, delivering a stronger justice response that holds offenders to account, and continuing Victoria’s world-leading prevention approach.

Today’s announcement builds on the Labor Government’s commitment to making social media safer for our kids, including its survey to help inform age limits and safety programs, available at engage.vic.gov.au/safesocials.

Non-government schools can apply until 8 November 2024 to participate in Respectful Relationships at the website, vic.gov.au/respectful-relationships.