Doing ‘IT‘ (Sexual Health Victoria)

In this Episode FPV Schools and Community Manager Brendan Bailey speaks about the principals of trauma informed practice. We know that we deliver sessions to students, teachers and parents who have been impacted by traumatic experiences. So how can we safely deliver information about sex and sexuality with this in mind.

Resources:

See Berry St Education Model. For more information about FPV including educational resources go to  fpv.org.au.

In this episode we deep dive into the navigating the world of sexual consent. We discuss how effective communication skills positively impact pleasurable experiences and what that means both emotionally and legally for young people. We discuss with Sue our expert educator how consent applies to real world experiences and how it can have devastating outcomes if not clearly understood and defined. This is an episode not to miss.

Resources: 

Testimonies and petition from Chanel Contos at Teach us Consent.  Educate 2 Empower Publishing for picture books on bodily autonomy. Blue seat studios  Consent Is Like A Cup Of Tea and other animated resources. See clip by @theroyals and Clementine Ford explaining consent. Book by Yumi Stymes & Dr Melissa Kang Welcome to Consent. ALL our educational resources are relevant to a conversation about consent go to fpv.org.au. 

In this episode Dr Jennifer Power talks about the 2022 National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health from Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) at LaTrobe University.

Dr Power talks through some key statistics from the survey as well as providing perspective on why we are so keen to know how much sex young people are having.

Resources:

See Dr Jennifer Power, LaTrobe University profile. See lots of research from Australian Research Centre in Sex Health and Society. See 7th National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health. For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

Discord is a social chat app designed initially for the gaming community, now extending to a wide variety of interest groups. In this episode listen to Discord Senior Policy Director, Savannah Badalich explain what Discord does to keep users safe. Part of keeping young people safe online is understanding the platforms they use.

Resources:

DISCORD and DISCORD Safety centre. See eSafety for reporting eSafety Guide for games apps and social media.  For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode we talk to triple J presenter and author Bridget Hustwaite.  Bridget shares her experience of endometriosis. It can take a long time to be diagnosed with this chronic disease as it is much misunderstood. We talk about her book ‘How To Endo’ and her insta community ’Endogram’ to help take you on the journey.

Resources: 

Bridget has a webpage for more information about her including social media links. How to Endo is available in bookstores. Bridget's Instagram community Endogram. Bridget also mentioned QENDO and Endoactive. Also see Endometriosis Australia for advice and information. For more information about FPV  including clinic appointments @ fpv.org.au. 

Part 1 of 7. What is the Problem?

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode listen to parents, a wellbeing coordinator and eSafety talk about why this is a conversation you need to have with the young people in your life.

Find out more about eSafety at esafety.gov.au

Find out more about Sexual Health Victoria at shvic.org.au

18000MYOPTIONS has answered over 14000 calls from people seeking advice and referrals about sexual and reproductive health.

Many callers want to know more about pregnancy options. In this episode, Cath tells us what people want to know when they have questions about abortion.

Resources:  

Visit www.1800myoptions.org.au for contact details, and information. Call 1800MYOPTIONS on 1800 696 784. Or For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.  

Part 3 of 7. Inappropriate.

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode we will discuss the word inappropriate. Greg from eSafety talks through the classification system and Fida talks about the appropriateness of RSE in faith based schools.

More about the Australian classification system. See information about Fida Sanjakdar.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

In this episode Anne talks to Dr Gemma Sharp. Gemma is a clinical psychologist and Senior Research Fellow in the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre where she leads the Body Image Research Group. Gemma discusses young people and genital self image, the rising popularity of labiaplasty surgery and the positive impact education can have on body image. Resources: For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.  Parents and carers can register interest in having a 13-15 year old girl participate in Gemma’s latest research about young people and genital self image (available at time of publication) . Dr Gemma Sharp twitter page and Monash University biography  including links to research. Watch Gemma’s TED talk. Have a look at Women’s Health Victoria Labia Library.

In this episode we speak with Bec Martin from Evolve Education. Evolve delivers cyber safety information to school aged children and families. Bec has worked extensively as a teacher with primary-aged children to support age-appropriate Digital Wellbeing and Cybersafety. Anne and Bec discuss the links between Relationships and Sexuality Education and Cybersafety to navigate the likelihood that young people find sexual content online. 

Resources:  

See Evolve Education. Bec recommends the Beacon App. Resources, information, reporting and research see eSafety Commisioner also safety guide . Simple, state based legal information at Youth Law Australia. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. 

In this episode Dr Lona Brown from Family Planning Victoria talks about contraception. This is an important part of our secondary school sex education. Lona talks through up to date information about contraception, including efficacy, cost and privacy. It's important for young people to have this information, so they are able to be responsible for their own sexual health and support their sexual partners. Resources: See FPV website about contraception. 1800myoptions is a Victorian service which compiles information about sexual health choices and service providers. Jean Hailles for Women’s Health also has information.  The Museum of Contraception and Abortion for some historical context to pregnancy prevention.

Here at FPV, we are frequently asked about the use of menstrual cups, so we invited Dr Sara, our resident GP, to share her insights. In this episode, we discuss the rise in popularity of menstrual cups as people seek new environmentally friendly ways to manage their periods.

Resources:

Lunette sells menstrual cups. They also have a youtube channel with short videos about menstrual cups.  Diva Cups also have website and information. Also see Diva Cup smaller sizes marketed for under 18’s. See Choice article and abc daily life about menstrual cups. For clinic appointments and information go to fpv.org.au.

In this episode we speak to performers Dean Arcuri & Jacob Thomas. Sometimes they run Drag Storytime events. Listen to Dean and Jacob describe the many ways that these events bring community, performance and storytelling together in a safe inclusive way for all.

Resources:

See  Dean at Dean Arcuri and LinkedIn. Find Jacob Thomas on LinkedIn. See Rainbow Community Angels for events and news.

For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode Andrew from Victoria Legal Aid explains the legalities of sexting. We talk through some scenarios that young people often ask about. Understanding sexting and the law is a great way to get this conversation started at home.  Note: laws vary between states. Victorian laws are explained in this episode.  Resources: Victoria Legal Aid for simple explanations of the law. VLA education kit for teachers called ‘Sex, young people and the law’. Youth Law Australia for all states and territories in Australia. The eSafety Commissioner for reporting image-based abuse & illegal and harmful content. Victoria Police for information on reporting a sexual crime.  Our previous episode on consent for more details on how we talk about this with young people. More information about fpv go to fpv.org.au. 

In this episode, FPV Chief Executive Officer, Claire Vissenga talks about pleasure. One of the most common reasons for people to choose a sexual relationship is the pursuit of pleasure. Yet discussions of pleasure are left out of curriculum and policy. Claire talks through FPV’s approach to this discussion and its importance.

Resources listed in the podcast:

World Health Organisation definition of sexual health. Research and recommendations about Sexuality Education see the UNESCO International technical guidance on sexuality education: an evidence-informed approach. Scarleteen has articles for young people on sexual health and sexual pleasure. Information about FPV school programs including resources and lesson plans go to the schools portal on the FPV website.

More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode Dr Jacqui Hendriks talks about her recent research. Jacqui has led the First national survey of Australian parents and their attitudes towards relationships and sexuality education in schools.

Resources:

See Dr Jacqui Hendriks Curtain University bio. See research: Support for school-based relationships and sexual health education: a national survey of Australian parents. For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode Clare from Victoria Legal Aid talks through the laws about sex that young people should know. These include age of consent, laws around viewing pornography, and explanations of grooming.

Resources:

Go to Victoria Legal Aid for explanations of the law 1300 792 387. VLA education kit for teachers called ‘Sex, young people and the law’. Youth Law Australia for state-based laws in Australia.  Victoria Police provides information on reporting a sexual crime.  Our previous episode on consent for more details on talking about this with young people. Clare recommends Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800, Sexual Assault Crisis Line run by CASA 1800 806 292.More information about fpv go to fpv.org.au.

In this episode, author and publisher Jayneen Sanders talks about her vision to empower young people from a young age with body safety information and protective behaviours. Her aim is to help keep children safe from abuse. Jayneen writes and publishes books and resources, which can be used by teachers, parents and carers. These can help with conversations about sometimes challenging topics like safe or unsafe secrets and body autonomy. Resources: See Jayneen Sanders titles and teacher resources at Educate 2 Empower Publishing. Download Early Warning Signs and Body Safety Rules posters. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.      

In this episode FPV educator Andrea talks about children seeing pornography. It is usual for young people to be curious about bodies and sex and they sometimes look to the internet to provide this information. Parents and carers often tell us that they don’t know how or when to start a conversation about pornography, even if they are worried about the potential harms of seeing it. Listen for some ideas. 

Resources:  

Esafety  for research and resources about pornography. Esafety advice for parents / carers on talking about pornography. See research at Australian Institute of Family Studies. Its Time We Talked  website and program by Maree Crabbe and David Corlett for information about young people and pornography. Good Pictures , Bad Pictures jnr picture book by Kristen Jenson. Someone should Have Told Me  by Hollyann Martin. Keep It Real Online New Zealand campaign to help start a conversation about pornography. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. 

In this episode we speak to Anita Brown Major about the sexual response cycle. As an occupational therapist, Anita uses her understanding of physiology to help people understand their own bodies, including what happens during a sexual experience. Sexual response and pleasure is the part of sexuality education that most adults did not receive and is still often not discussed in education. Anita helps us understand more.

Resources:

Find out more about Anita Brown Major at Thrive Rehab. See online orders for a Cliterate model.  See SHV sexual and reproductive anatomy illustrations. Listen to episode #14 The Clitoris. Extra reading about sex and sexual response see Emily Nagoski Come As you Are. Find Sexual Health Victoria at shvic.org.au.

In this episode, we chat with Christopher Fisher.

 

Chris is the Associate Professor at the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society (ARCSHS) at La Trobe University. Chris provides a summary of his findings within the 6th National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health 2019 about the sexual health knowledge and sexual behaviours of Australian students in grades 10 to 12. Enjoy!

Resources and the survey discussed in the podcast are:

Here is a link to Australian Research Centre into Sex Health and Society where many publications relating to the opinions and practices of Australians are linked. Here is a link directly to the 6th National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health 2019.

For international research and information UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) in 2017 published a document detailing how international research informs best practice in Relationships and sexuality Education. International technical guidance on sexuality education: an evidence-informed approach

More information about Family Planning Victoria @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

Part 5 of 7. Sexting.

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode Dr. Kath Albury and SHV Health Promotion Officer Zara, discuss the language and context of young people sharing sexual pictures.

See Youth Law Australia for legal information. See Dr Kath Albury, Swinburne University.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

In this episode Anne speaks with criminal lawyer Katrina Marson. Katrina has done extensive international research into Relationships and Sexuality Education as a preventive strategy to reduce the incidence of sexual violence in the community. Katrina discusses the potential impact of RSE programs, barriers to success, and what models work well in other parts of the world.

Resources:

For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. Katrina Marson's paper Ignorance is not Innocence. UNESCO International technical guidance on sexuality education: An evidence-informed approach(2018).

In this episode, two families share their stories of making babies using Assisted Reproductive Technology. Sue and Linda explain some of the process and how they decided to talk to their children about it. Their children, Emily and Elsie, talk about what they understand about how they were conceived.

Resources:

SHV have free teacher resources to assist with classroom teaching of Assisted Reproduction. These were developed with the support of Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA)

For more about SHV, go to @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode Anne speaks with Karen Molhuysen from Sexual Health Quarters in Western Australia. SHQ is part of the Family Planning Alliance Australia, and does very similar work to FPV. Karen has some practical advice on starting a conversation about sex with the idea that sex is most often about pleasure.  Resources: See Sexual Health Quarters.  World Health Organisation definition of sexual health. Research and recommendations about Sexuality Education see the UNESCO International technical guidance on sexuality education: an evidence-informed approach. Scarleteen has articles for young people on sexual health and sexual pleasure. For FPV school programs, resources and lesson plans go to the schools portal or fpv.org.au.

Over the next 3 episodes I will be talking to Emily and Cath who work with 1800MYOPTIONS.  

1800 My Options is a free, confidential and independent phone service that provides information and pathways to sexual and reproductive health services in Victoria – such as abortion, contraception, pregnancy options and STI testing.

In this episode, Emily tells us exactly what callers want to know about contraception.

Resources:  

Visit www.1800myoptions.org.au for contact details, and information. Call 1800MYOPTIONS on 1800 696 784. Or For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.  

Part 6 of 7. Pornography.

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode Dr Zahra Stardust talks about the cultural context of pornography and how consent is vital for its production and distribution. Vanessa Hamilton speaks about her experiences in talking to families about young people, sex and pornography.

See bio for Zahra Stardust. See Talking the Talk (Vanessa Hamilton)

See  Mind The Gap eSafety research.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

 

In this episode Anne speaks to FPV's Dr Lucy Donovan, about preventing human immunodeficiency virus or HIV through the use of Post Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). PrEP and PEP are ways of using anti-viral medication to suppress HIV and stop its spread. PrEP and PEP might be used by people of all genders. Talking about these medications is an important part of a discussion about STI and BBV risk and safer sex practices.  Many parents and carers aren't aware of how they are used, so here are the basics to get the conversation started.   Resources: Search "PrEP" on FPV's website, You can get information on how to access PrEP and PEP in Australia at www.pan.org.au . Other Victorian websites to look up for information include Thorne Harbour Health and Melbourne Sexual Health Centre.   

The everybody education team at Sexual Health Victoria sometimes get questions about how we discuss gender, sex and sexuality in a classroom. In this episode SHV expert educator Chrissy is going to talk through what we say and why we say it.

Resources:

See Victorian Child Safe Standards and Victoria Department of Education LGBTIQ Student Support Policy.  See research Writing themselves in 4. Advocacy organisation Intersex Human Rights. See Minus 18 for resources and Inclusive Language Guide. Transcend Australia support families, parents and carers of gender diverse young people.

In this episode Dr Suzanne Pearson from FPV talks through Sexually Transmissible Infections (STI's). Learning about STI's is part of gaining an understanding of sexual health. Suzanne talks about the effect of STI's when they are not diagnosed and the availability of treatment. Also, the importance for young people to be confident to ask for testing and being able to discuss testing status with sexual partners. 

Resources: 

See the FPV website about Sexually Transmissible Infections. Rosie Respect & Scarleteen are websites for young people providing information about sex and relationships, including  information about STI’s. A GP or sexual health clinic such as Family Planning Victoria will have information on services for testing and treatment.

In this episode Laura Crozier and SHV educator Chrissy talk about their own experiences of finding help after being sexually assaulted in high school. Both Chrissy and Laura speak about the vital role of the welfare teams at their schools and the difficultly in disclosing abuse to parents.

Resources:

Laura works for Youth Affairs Council Victoria. Hear more of Laura’s story on Growing Up Clueless. Sexual Assault Service Victoria is the peak body for specialist sexual assault services and harmful sexual behaviour services. For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode comedian, Simon Taylor discusses his book ‘One Night Stand’. Simon candidly shares his real-life experience of a casual sexual encounter followed by an unplanned pregnancy. We discuss relationships, sexual health, contraception and what he wishes to tell his younger self.   

Resources: 

Simon Taylor online at simontaylorfunnyboy.com  for upcoming shows, social media, book sales and contact details.  See FPV, for contraception options and judgement-free sexual health information  fpv.org.au. 

In this episode FPV Medical Director Dr Kathy McNamee explains the process of abortion. This is something that students in secondary school often ask about. Young people want to know about availability and privacy of abortion services. Kathy covers  Australian laws around abortion, what might happen to someone’s body during an abortion and what support a person might need before and after an abortion.

Resources:

Go to FPV website. 1800myoptions is a Victorian service for information about sexual health choices and service providers. Marie Stopes is a national organisation providing sexual health and abortion services.  The Royal Women’s Hospital has information about unplanned pregnancy. The Museum of Contraception and Abortion provides some historical context to the dangerous things women have tried over the centuries to end a pregnancy.

 

In this episode we provide some small RSE homework tasks for each year level. FPV Schools Manager Bonnie details the skills and knowledge we would like students to have at different stages of their schooling. It is possible that due to COVID restrictions, students may miss out on planned RSE classes this year. Parents and carers who try a recommended task will be helping prepare their children for when life returns to something more like normal. Resources For more information about FPV and our school programs go to fpv.org.au. Youth Law Australia has state by state information about laws relating to sex and sexting. eSafety Commissioner for information about keeping safe online including talking about pornography with young people. PDF cheat sheet of homework tasks.

In this episode we speak to author Nevo Zisin. Nevo’s new book The Pronoun Lowdown is a simple guide to the changing language around gender. Nevo makes it really clear how and why this is so important to the trans and gender diverse community.  

Resources: 

Find more information about Nevo Zisin and their book The Pronoun Lowdown. Minus 18 for support and information. Documentary Disclosure about trans representation in film. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. 

In this episode, chair of Intersex Human Rights Dr Agli Zavros-Orr speaks of their advocacy work and their lived experience as a person born with an intersex variation. Young people often ask us how bodies can be different. Agli helps explain the diversity of human sex characteristics.

Resources:

See more at Intersex Human Rights Australia. Find Agli’s research at research gate.

See book Raising Rosie for families.

For more about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

Part 2 of 7. Curriculum.

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode listen to educators talk about how the curriculum includes opportunities to deliver sessions around esafety and sexual content.

Find the Resilience Rights and Respectful Relationships curriculum on FUSE.

See more about Bec Martin and Evolve Education.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

In this episode we speak to the 2023 Australian Youth Representative to the United Nations, Imogen Kane. This role saw Imogen travel Australia to meet with young people to find out what was important to them. Hear what Imogen learned about the generational divide, sexuality and relationships and the importance of listening.

Resources:

See Imogen Kane and the UN listening tour. For help learning about the programs that YP are using see the eSafety guide.  Youth Affairs Council Victoria has some great information about youth participation and co-design.  Find Sexual Health Victoria at shvic.org.au. 

 

In this episode we talk to Krushnadevsinh Ravalji (Kano). Kano is the Youth Commissioner at the Victorian Multicultural Commission. We ask him about how educators can ensure that Relationships and Sexuality Education is inclusive and respectful for the multicultural communities that we work with.

Resources:

See more about Kano at the Third Culture. Find Kano on LinkedIn. See Centre for Culture, Ethnicity & Health for information and many translated health resources.

For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode, we talk about young people and body image.

As young people go through puberty, their body is likely to go through big changes. FPV Schools educator Andrea will talk about how to support your young person to feel confident about the body they are in as they navigate these changes. This episode is a part of a series about puberty. Enjoy!

Suggested resources from the podcast: 

Secret Guide to Girls Stuff by Caz Cooke has excellent advice for girls about body image, the Kidshealth.org website has really good information about teens and body image also Kids Helpline has lots of great advice for developing positive body image. For more information about us you can have a look at our website FPV.org.au

 

Part 7 of 7. eSafety. Australia’s Online Safety Regulator.

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode Sharon Trotter Education Manager of Education, Prevention and Inclusion talks about the scope of eSafety and the role that they have in prevention of harm online.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

In this episode Dr Karin Hammarberg explains what happens when people need medical help to make a baby. We talk about what has changed and what the future of fertility treatments might be.

Resources:

More about Dr Karin Hammarberg, Monash University. See VARTA for information about ART, including how to discuss this with children. FPV  teaching resources and  self paced online learning module teach ART to school students. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we speak to Kardie from FPV’s Schools and Community team. Kardie works with young people with cognitive disability to help guide them through puberty and how to have respectful relationships. We talk about what young people with cognitive disability need to know about puberty, when they need to know it and how their experience may be the same or different to their neuro-typical peers. Enjoy!

Resources mentioned in the podcast:

Amaze.org.au has partnered with FPV and Cottons to provide a resource explaining menstruation with a social script and illustrations. Better Health has information about puberty and young people with cognitive disability. Speak Up And Be Safe is a website with downloadable communication aids specifically about body safety. Some books about puberty are: Special Secret Girls Business; Special Secret Boys Business. 

 

More information about FPV including information about talking to children with cognitive disability about sex and easy English fact sheet go to  fpv.org.au

In this episode, sexual health nurse Alison everything you ever wanted to know about condoms. As Educators, we are frequently asked to talk about condoms in our classes. Upper primary school children often have questions about them. Secondary school students get a lot more information about what condoms are, what they are used for and how to use them. We also discuss how to talk to young people about what to do if sex without a condom happens. Condoms are the only type of contraception that protects against both STI’s (sexually transmissible infections) and pregnancy. This is important information for everyone to know before they have a sexual experience. Enjoy!

Resources:

Access a wealth of information about condoms the FPV website or on the Kidshealth site. For more information about the sexual behaviour of young Australians have a look at the 6th National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health 2019. by Australian Research  Centre into Sex Health and Society at La Trobe University. Or have a listen to our episode about this research here.

More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. Contact us at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we speak with FPV educator Kit about consent. When do young people start to learn about consent? What should adults say about it? What does consent mean in a sexual relationship? What does the law say about consent? What does FPV say about consent in classes? Enjoy!

Family Planning Victoria are based in Victoria and the age of consent laws we reference in this episode are Victorian laws. Please be aware that laws vary from state to state and internationally.

Some resources we use in class to talk about consent include:

Consent for Kids. Consent is like a cup of tea. 

Vic legal aid consent and the law

Laci Green Consent 101.

For more information about Family Planning Victoria go to fpv.org.au

In this episode Professor Kath Albury draws on her research to discuss ethical considerations around young people exchanging sexual pictures. Kath discusses how online sexual behaviour, the law and adult expectations do not always match.

Resources:

See Professor Kath Albury on Swinburne University website. Relevant research papers are Young People and Sexting in Australia: ethics, representation and the law'(2013)  & Safety, Risk and Wellbeing on Dating Apps. Also see eSafety Commisioner on sexting & sextortion.  For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.

Part 4 of 7. What is grooming?

This series of podcasts is produced with the support of the Office of the eSafety Commissioner.

We will look closely at how young people might engage with sexual content online and how parents and carers can get involved in this discussion.

In this episode Detective Superintendent Jayne Crossling talks about what grooming is and how the police go about education and investigations.

Grooming can be reported through Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation. Also AFP Child Protection Operations (CPO) team. See also Think U Know educational resources.

See eSafety at https://www.esafety.gov.au/. Sexual Health Victoria at https://shvic.org.au/ 

In this episode CEO of Pink Hope, Sarah Powell talks about the importance of breast awareness. Pink Hope is a preventative health hub designed to connect and inform people about cancer risk. Young people frequently ask questions about breasts during puberty. So, what could we tell them about breast cancer risk? 

Resources:

See Pink Hope for more information www.pinkhope.org.au . Find information on family history and cancer at the Cancer Council. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.

In this episode, Olivia talks about her experience of being one of two mums in a proud rainbow family. She shares her experiences on starting a family, growing up, and how the marriage equality bill has impacted her family. 

Resources: 

Australian Institute of Family Studies for research around same sex parented families.  Victorian Pride Centre is a hub for a range of LGBTIQ+ focused organisations. Minus 18 for young LGBTIQ+ people and their families. For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. 

In this episode, Cath from 1800MYOPTIONS talks us through the common questions people call with about sexual health. This is a fantastic service to know about and make sure the young people in your life know about too.

Resources:  

Visit www.1800myoptions.org.au for contact details, and information. Call 1800MYOPTIONS on 1800 696 784. Or For more information about FPV @ fpv.org.au.  

In this episode Anne talks with Family Planning Victoria Dr Sara Whitburn and pharmacist David from Woodhouse Grove Pharmacy about emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy if no contraceptive protection was used, if the condom broke, or if a contraceptive pill was missed. It's yet another important part of the sexual health conversation parents and carers can have with their young people. Dr Sara talks about how emergency contraception works and David talks through the process of purchasing this at a pharmacy.

Resources:

We have information on the FPV website about contraception. 1800myoptions is a Victorian service which compiles information about sexual health choices and service providers. The Royal Women’s Hospital for information about asking a pharmacist for Emergency Contraception. The Museum of Contraception and Abortion provides some historical context to ending or preventing pregnancy.

Professor Michael Flood describes types of masculinities that can be harmful to boys, men and the people around them. Listen for a discussion on engaging men and boys to address gender inequality and gender based violence.

In this episode, Professor Michael Flood describes types of masculinities that can be harmful to boys, men and the people around them. He also details the benefits of engaging men and boys in efforts to address gender inequality and gender based violence.

Resources:

See more about Prof Michael Flood. Read more articles from Michael at xyonline. Michael mentioned The Man Box by Jesuit Social Services. Our Watch have provided lots of information about addressing gender based violence. For more information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

Often people think that Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is only for students in senior years of primary school or secondary school. However, there is a lot of information that can be taught to children even before they get to school. Expert educator Athi from Family Planning Victoria, talks about what could be included in an RSE program in pre-school or kindergarten. 

Resources:

More information about FPV go to fpv.org.au. See information about Child Safe Standards. Book- Everyones Got A Bottom by Tess Rowley. . 

In this episode Sarah from marketing talks about our new name: Sexual Health Victoria. 

Thanks for all the support over the last two years of Doing 'IT'. There is lots more to come in 2022. Please get in touch with feedback or suggestions. doingit@shvic.org.au. 

 

In this episode, Natalie from FPV talks us through inclusive language and how it applies to the way we talk about relationships and sexuality. In her work as Community Engagement and Health Promotions Officer, Natalie talks with many community groups to find out what is important to them, making FPV's services more inclusive and accessible. We discuss the importance of pronouns, define some key terms and are encouraged to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that we all carry. Enjoy!

Resources listed in the podcast are:

Tasmanian Education Department Guidelines for Inclusive Language.  Australian Institute of Family Studies glossary of terms. Minus 18 has great resources for schools and families. The Diversity Council includes short videos about inclusive language in the workplace. Melbourne Bisexual Network for community led advocacy of bisexual+ health. Also see ACON Inclusive language guide.

More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode Leon from SHV talks about embedding a whole school approach to Relationships and Sexuality Education. SHV are working in partnership with a secondary school in Melbourne’s Northwestern growth corridor. Leon unpacks some of the challenges and learnings from working with a large, new, multicultural school.

Resources:

Some supporting policies to inform a Relationships and Sexuality Education program are: Child Safe Standards; Sexuality and Consent Education Policy; LGBTIQA+ support policy. See Strategic Partnerships Program.  More information about SHV @ shvic.org.au.

In this episode, we speak with Fida Sanjakdar. Fida is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Education at Monash University specializing in the intersection of culture, religion and sexuality education. Enjoy!

See Fida's Monash University Biography.

For more information on Victorian Education Department policies on Special Religious Instruction in government schools  (link here).  Relationships and Sexuality Education is written into both the Australian Curriculum and Child Safe Standards. Independent and Religious schools within Victoria align to these also, however some may have their own specific policies about religious instruction and sexuality education. If you are unsure of where your school stands on this, you may like to ask.

More information about Family Planning Victoria @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we interview Fiona Katauskas.

Fiona is a cartoonist, author and illustrator. She is the artist behind The Amazing True Story of How Babies are Made, a popular book that has been animated into a three-part series for families and schools. 

Fiona has created a funny, accurate and inclusive narrative as a way to guide a conversation about how babies are made. Family Planning Victoria have endorsed the resource and we have seen first hand how classrooms of students react to its humour and honesty in such a positive way. In this episode we talk about the creative process of writing and animating this story and the reactions it has had. 

The Amazing True Story of How Babies Are Made is available in bookshops, and at Kmart. Online bookstore here. The animated series in 3 parts has it’s own webpage amazingbabies.tv.  This is where to find the animations,  extra family resources and teacher toolkit.

For more information about us go to fpv.org.au.  

   

In this episode, we talk to FPV’s Nurse Educator Sam Read. Young people often ask questions about sexual health information and seek information about how to protect their privacy. Sam talks about what it takes for a young person to get themselves to the doctor. What age can someone see a doctor on their own? Does a parent have to know if a young person has been prescribed contraception? What even is Medicare and the My Health record? Enjoy!

Family Planning Victoria is one of several sexual health clinics available in Melbourne. There are other sexual health service providers in Melbourne and in capital cities as well as General Practitioners. 

Resources:

Links for Medicare transfer forms. Information about my health record.

The Better Health Channel and Headspace have great information about young people and going to the doctor.

Vic Youth Law has legal information about sex and the law.

For more information about us go to fpv.org.au.  

In this episode, we speak with Holly Ann Martin. Holly Ann is Managing Director of Safe 4 Kids, a child abuse prevention program. Anne speaks with Holly Ann about the program and its impact in remote areas of northern Australia, where Holly Ann works with whole communities. Enjoy!

For more information about Holly Ann visit the Safe 4 Kids website. You can find an online shop here to purchase books and resources. Video resources available on the  Safe 4 Kids YouTube channel. Here you can see tutorials, testimonials and examples of the work being done by her in schools.  Holly Ann mentioned a helpful book by Tess Rowley to introduce protective education to small children– Everyone’s Got a Bottom.

More information about Family Planning Victoria @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we speak with Jenny Walsh. Jenny has been working in the field of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in Australia and internationally for over 25 years. She is a former senior member of the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society at La Trobe University. She has authored resources and curriculum such as Catching on Early and Catching on Later which have been used by teachers to deliver RSE curriculum. Jenny tells us what has changed and what has stayed the same in Relationships and Sexuality Education. Enjoy!

Jenny Walsh has a website with her contact details and links to many of the resources she has developed such as: The practical Guide to Love Sex and Relationships animations; Talk Soon Talk Often guide for parents and carers; Catching On Early curriculum resource. These are free to download and use.

More information about Family Planning Victoria @ fpv.org.au. Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we talk about masturbation. Parents and carers often have questions about how and when to talk to young people about masturbation. Anne records this episode on her own. Enjoy!

Resources listed in the podcast are:

Better Health Channel has some information about masturbation. Amaze.org have a cute video about masturbation as well as a bunch of other resources on YouTube. Books about young people and sexuality or puberty often contain information about masturbation. 

Transcript available here.

In this episode, we interview Miller Soding from Minus 18. Minus 18 is an Australian youth driven network for LGTBIQ young people. They run events, workshops and provide advocacy resources. Minus 18 is an agency that young people might know about through school. In this discussion, Miller answers questions about the type of work Minus 18 do and why it is so important. She also talks about some logistics of events that parents and carers might want to know about if they have a young person attending an event. Enjoy!

For more information about Minus 18 go to their website. They provide information for young people, created by young people that explains the whole rainbow, including past and future events. Have a look at their social media platforms here: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and twitter.

For more information about Family Planning Victoria go to fpv.org.au

 

In this episode, we talk about periods. FPV Schools Education Manager Bonnie talks through the common questions that young people have about periods. How they work, myths and realities, talking about and managing periods. This episode is a part of a series about puberty. Enjoy!

Suggested resources from the podcast: 

Kotex is a company that will send out free pads and tampons ubykotex.com.ou. Cottons also have information about periods and starter kits from $5. Family Planning Victoria have partnered with Cottons to create a guide for young people with autism on how to manage periods. You can find that at amaze.org.au.

You can find out more information about menstrual cups  at lunette.com.au.  Modibodi is the Australian period underwear company.  kidshealth.org Has great information for helping to explain how periods work. In class, we use a video from Jean Hailles for women's health. Go to Jeanhailles.org.au.

For more information about us, you can go to fpv.org.au

 

In this episode, we talk about sperm production. FPV Schools Educator Rael explains what we should say to students about bodies as they start to produce sperm during puberty. This episode is a part of a series about puberty. Enjoy!

Suggested resources from the podcast:

Puberty Boy by Geoff Price. Secret Boys' Business by Fay Angelo, Rose Stewart and Heather Pritchard. Amaze.org have a YouTube channel, and they have a really great video that we use in class to explain wet dreams. For more information about Family Planning Victoria go to fpv.org.au

 

In this episode, we talk about ways young people can take care of their bodies as they go through puberty.

Young people need to understand the basics of how bodies work and how to manage changes like body odour and pimples. As they through puberty they are likely to want more independence privacy.

In this episode, FPV Schools Educator Sue talks about what young people need to know about taking care of their own body. This episode is a part of a series about puberty. Enjoy!

Suggested resources from the podcast: 

 Raisingchildren.net.au has some information, so does Kids Spot. For more information about Family Planning Victoria go to fpv.org.au

 

In this episode, we speak with Vanessa Hamilton from Talking the Talk. She discusses the clitoris: a body part that is often left out of the anatomy discussion. We talk about what it is, what young people need to know about it, what to say and when. Enjoy!

FPV advocates for a pleasure positive approach to Relationships and Sexuality Education. We include information about the clitoris as part of anatomy classes in primary school so students have foundational information about bodies when learning about healthy sexual relationships in secondary school.  

More about Vanessa Hamilton at Talking The Talk.

For more information on the clitoris Science Direct has really complete info. Australian Urologist Helen O'Connnell helped put the clitoris back into anatomy texts. Scarleteen has some information and some medical type drawings which explain where the clitoris sits within the body. This French animation mentioned is-  Le clitoris - Animated Documentary (2016) by Lori Malépart-Traversy. Sophia Wallace is the artist who created the Clitoracy Project.

More information about Family Planning Victoria@ fpv.org.au.

Contact us directly at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we interview writer and LGBTIQ advocate Jac Tomlins.

Jac has created a resource called Trans and Gender Diverse Parents Guide. In it, she records the experience of parenting as a transgender, gender diverse person or a person who is transitioning while parenting. These individual stories are published together to start building a picture of a collective experience and provide insights and advice for people within the community (LGBTIQ and more broadly). Children often have questions about what it means to be transgender and what that might mean for someone's fertility. This guide provides insight into this experience and guidance on ways to communicate this to young people. Enjoy! le. 

Resources:

Information about Jac Tomlins at her website. The resource TRANS AND GENDER DIVERSE PARENTS GUIDE  available through Jac’s website also at Rainbow Families. The guide ends with a list of resources state by state, nationally and internationally, they include: Transgender Victoria; The Gender Centre; World Professional Association of Transgender Health.

More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au. Contact us at doingit@fpv.org.au.

In this episode, we interview Kate Bourne from the Victorian Assisted Reproduction Treatment Authority (VARTA). VARTA is responsible for the registration of reproductive clinics, public education, donor conception registers and can connect people with a sperm or egg donor.

Statistically, there is a child in every class who was conceived through some kind of Assisted Reproductive Technology. When FPV run classes in primary school about making babies we talk about IVF and other types of Assisted Reproductive Technology. We think it is important that all types of conception are included.

Kate discusses the role of VARTA, provides guidance about what to say to children about alternative methods of conception, and when to have those conversations.

Enjoy! 

Resources:

VARTA website for news about fertility, includes links to support groups. VARTA page titled When to tell: ages and stages giving detailed advice on how to tell children about IVF or ART at different ages.  The Donor Conception Network  for books to help explain different types of conception. Corey Silverberg’s book – What Makes A Baby  is a great book to start a conversation about babies no matter how they were conceived.

VARTA & FPV teaching module is a classroom resource to use for students grade 3- 10 when teaching about Assisted Reproductive Technology.

More information about FPV @ fpv.org.au

Introducing Doing 'IT'! A new podcast from Family Planning Victoria.

Listen to the experts as we discuss all things Relationships and Sexuality Education. Including: bodies, growing up, being safe, puberty, sex, identity, relationships, sexuality and sexual health.

We know some parents and carers may find it difficult to have conversations about these topics with the young people in their lives. Having open and honest communication empowers young people to look after themselves in life and relationships. Doing ‘IT’ provides tips and resources to help parents, carers and teachers to start or continue these conversations. Enjoy!

Family Planning Victoria

In this episode, we talk to FPV Schools Team Manager Bonnie about puberty.

What do young people want to know? When do parents and carers need to talk about this? What are the changes that happen in puberty?

We tackle the common questions in this episode. This episode is a part of a series about puberty. Enjoy!

 

Suggested resources from the podcast: 

Books about puberty, Puberty Boy or Puberty Girl by Geoff Price. Secret Boys, Secret Girls Business.  Kidshealth.org, Raising Children have puberty information and so does Better Health. If you want more information about Family Planning Victoria programs, please go to our website, fpv.org.au. 

 

In this episode, we discuss how to talk with young people about sex. Talking about sex often accompanies discussions about puberty in mid-primary school classes, prompting further questions at home. Parents and carers might find it difficult to know what to say. Schools Educator Athi joins Anne to share some wisdom on how to start or continue these conversations at home. Enjoy!. 

Suggested resources for the podcast:

"What Makes a Baby" by Cory Silverberg is a really gentle introduction to the idea that the sperm and egg join and that's how a baby starts. "Mummy Laid an Egg" by Babbette Cole is a really great picture book for younger children. "The Amazing True Story of How Babies Are Made' by Fiona Katasukus available as a book and a 3 part animation. The Australian Research Center, in Sex, Health and Society at La Trobe University publish research about sexual behavior of young people.

Transcript available here.