Canberra students discuss respectful relationships

The Minister for the Status of Women, Julie Collins MP, and the Member for Canberra, Gai Brodtmann MP, today visited Canberra Grammar School – a leading participant in the Australian Government’s Respectful Relationships program.

“It’s important we educate young people on how to engage in respectful relationships as a way of working towards breaking the cycle of violence for future generations,” Ms Collins said.

During the visit Year 10 students enjoyed a short animated film from the Australian Government’s The Line campaign before being entertained by a performance by The Line ambassador Eli Wolfe.

The Line uses social media and music to engage young people on what is acceptable in relationships.

“The Australian Government has a zero tolerance to violence against women and has committed $17 million to The Line,” Ms Collins said.

“The message for young people is that all forms of violence are unacceptable, including bullying, cyber bullying, harassment, stalking, sexual abuse and domestic violence.

“The Line is all about encouraging young people to think about what is acceptable in a relationship and what crosses the line,” Ms Collins said.

Ms Brodtmann congratulated staff and students at Canberra Grammar for their partnership in the Government’s $9.1 million Respectful Relationships initiative and for organising today’s event.

“With International Women’s Day this week, it’s especially important to focus on ways to eradicate a problem that is, sadly, all too common in our society – violence against women and their children,” Ms Brodtmann said.

“I know programs such as Respectful Relationships are part of the learning experience at many other schools around Australia.

“I am extremely pleased as the local member of parliament to have such a great example of this type of community involvement in our electorate,” Ms Brodtmann said.