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 skills to safely navigate issues like consent, sextortion, pornography and gender-based bullying.
More non-government schools are being encouraged to join more than 1950 Victorian government, Catholic and independent schools, including more than 370 non-government schools already signed up to the initiative.
The schools can join via a new expression of interest process, with support including start-up 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.
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.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll said Victoria was leading the nation in delivering the Respectful Relationships program.
"The updated materials ensure students are taught how to navigate contemporary issues and our continued investment will allow for even more non-government schools to teach Respectful Relationships."
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward said embedding respect into relationships is fundamental to the wellbeing of children - for them to feel respected as well as respecting others.