In early August, members of our Youth Advisory Council for a Safer Australia presented their peer bystander proposal to the Countering Violent Extremism Sub-Committee (CVESC) of the Australian-New Zealand Counter-Terrorism Committee.
The CVESC is a dedicated working group who coordinate national policies, intervention programs and research that aims to prevent and mitigate violent extremism.
The Council presented to the CVESC because of their work with the Department of Home Affairs. They’re working together to ensure youth perspectives are incorporated into policies and programs to counter violent extremism.
Notice the Shift is a youth-led initiative that was developed by the Council.
It was designed in a series of workshops with SenateSHJ and informed by the Department of Home Affairs. The initiative aims to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to recognise concerning behaviours amongst their peers. It supports young people to look out for their friends, including how to take safe action if a peer appears to be vulnerable to violent extremist influences.
Discussions with the CVESC explored practical ways to build young people's confidence to check in with friends and respond safely if concerns arise. They also discussed the importance of connection, belonging, and early support to prevent vulnerability to harmful influences.
The Office for Youth and the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs thank Council members for their time and leadership. Work like this demonstrates the value of including youth voices in government decision-making.
The Council is a commitment of the Australian Government’s A Safer Australia: Australia’s Counter-Terrorism and Violent Extremism Strategy 2025.
To learn more about CVESC, visit the Australian National Security website.