The Youth Behaviour Change Project works with young people who have used, or are at risk of using, violence in family or intimate partner contexts. The program helps participants develop safe and respectful relationships while addressing underlying factors. Program Components: – One-on-one support with skilled case managers – Group sessions on gender equality and healthy ...
The Youth Junction
The Youth Behavioural Change Program
GOAL
$300,000
RAISED
$10,000
Australia > VIC > Metro and Regional
Field of Interest
- Individual/family services and support
- Social inclusion and justice
Target Population
- Young people (6-25)
- People impacted by the legal system
The Youth Junction
The Youth Junction Inc. stands at the vital intersection where multiple paths converge—where youth potential meets community pride. We create the essential connections that transform young lives and strengthen communities across Melbourne's west.
Our vision is to be recognised as a Centre of Excellence in youth services, building resilience, confidence, and positive change through personalised support that empowers young people to thrive as valued community contributors.
OUR VALUES
Empowering - We support young people to take the lead, recognising them as the experts in their own lives and empowering them to unlock their full potential.
Welcoming - We create safe, inclusive spaces where young people and collaborative partners can access services tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.
Evidence Informed - Every engagement offers an opportunity for growth, guided by youth wisdom and evidence-based practices that deliver measurable, positive outcomes.
Project Summary
The Youth Behaviour Change Project works with young people who have used, or are at risk of using, violence in family or intimate partner contexts. The program helps participants develop safe and respectful relationships while addressing underlying factors.
Program Components:
– One-on-one support with skilled case managers
– Group sessions on gender equality and healthy relationships
– Exploration of social norms, gender roles, and family dynamics
– Implementation of the ERIC (Emotional Regulation and Impulse Control) model
– Age-appropriate interventions for young people as young as 10
Project Outcomes
Key Outcomes:
- 30% success rate in relationship skills development
- 91% of participants had no further justice involvement
- Measurable improvement in emotional regulation
- Enhanced understanding of healthy relationships
- Development of non-violent communication skills
- Linked to specialist support services 17% (with 53% already having support in place at the time of intake)
- 61% of participants reduced their AOD usage over the duration of the program
- Reduced risk-taking behaviours by 72%
- Increased prosocial connection by 64%
Evidence-informed practice
The Youth Junction Inc. implements programs based on rigorous research and best practices. Our approach incorporates multiple theoretical frameworks proven effective for young people experiencing complex challenges.
Key Frameworks:
1. Case Management Methodology
- Developed using principles from the Changing Habits and Reaching Targets program
- Focuses on individualised assessment and targeted intervention
- Builds on personal strengths and community resources
2. Mindfulness and Psychological Flexibility
- Resources based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy principles
- Develops capacity to respond effectively to challenging situations
- Promotes values-based action and decision-making
3. ERIC Model (Emotional Regulation and Impulse Control)
- Comprehensive approach to enhancing emotion management skills
- Developed by Deakin University researchers in partnership with YSAS
- Eight domains addressing emotional literacy, flexible thinking, mindfulness, and decision-making
- Demonstrated improvements in emotion regulation and reduced anxiety.
Independent evaluation partnerships with Victoria University and other research bodies continue to inform our approach, ensuring that young people receive the most effective support possible.
Budget Breakdown
TOTAL BUDGET: $300,000
FUNDING
| Funding source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Funding Gap | $300,000 |
EXPENSES
| Expense item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Program wages and oncosts | $300,000 |
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