What is respectED?

respectED is an evidence-based program that aims to prevent intimate partner and sexual violence among adolescents. The program empowers young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate dating and relationships both online and offline.

Who is respectED for?

The program is designed for Year 9 and 10 (Stage 5) students, and is aligned with the Australian National Stage 5 curriculum for consent and respectful relationships education.

Who is behind respectED?

The program is led by Dr Siobhan O’Dean and Dr Amy-Leigh Rowe from the University of Sydney, in collaboration with young people, teachers, and an international team of experts. See our Team page for more information.

What does evidence-based mean?

The term ‘evidence-based’ means that the program is grounded in high-quality research and informed by the best available scientific evidence and theory. Each component of the program has been developed using reliable information sources, is backed by scientific studies, and has been reviewed by leading experts in psychology, health, and education. This ensures that the program is contemporary, relevant, and accurate. 

Is respectED safe and appropriate for young people?

Yes, respectED has been co-designed with young people and reviewed by education experts to ensure it is both safe and relevant. It is curriculum aligned, trauma-informed, age-appropriate, and inclusive of gender and sexuality diversity.

How do I gain access to respectED?

If your school has agreed to take part in the study, you can gain access to the respectED Program via respectED.org.au and registering for an account using the unique code provided to your school. If you are interested in being part of this study, please contact us via respectED.study@sydney.edu.au. Likewise, if you are part of this research but having trouble logging on, please contact us.

Do I need to pay to use respectED?

No, access to the respectED Program is currently for the purpose of research supported by the Department of Health and Aged Care – Medical Research Future Fund.

What if I no longer want to participate in the respectED study?

If you (or your child) are currently participating in the respectED study and would like to withdraw from the study, please contact us by emailing respectED.study@sydney.edu.au. Your decision to withdraw will not affect your (or their) relationship with the researchers or anyone else at the University of Sydney or collaborating institutions now or in the future.

Are there any technical requirements?

The digital component of the respectED program requires a stable internet connection and access to a web browser. The program has been tested using Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Firefox and Safari. If you have any technical issues accessing the site, please contact us.

Can I access respectED on my phone or other mobile device?

Yes, the respectED Program is optimised to be accessed on your phone, tablet and other mobile devices.

Contact us

If you have a question or comment that is not answered in these FAQs, please contact us.