In a significant move to mark International Youth Day, the Australian Government has unveiled the translated versions of its key campaign resource, the Conversation Toolkits, under the national initiative ‘One Talk at a Time’. This step aims to ensure that the campaign reaches all multicultural audiences across the country, making these essential resources accessible in 10 different languages.

What are the Conversation Toolkits?

The Conversation Toolkits are designed to help adults navigate the challenging yet critical task of discussing child sexual abuse with children and young people. The toolkits provide tailored advice for engaging in age-appropriate conversations, ensuring that these discussions are conducted responsibly and safely. Available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Farsi, Hazaragi, and English, these resources cater to the diverse Australian community. The toolkits are structured to support conversations with children across different age groups:

• Preschool-aged children guide: Arabic العربية / Farsi فارسى / Hazaragi هزارگی / English
• Primary School-aged children guide: Arabic العربية / Farsi فارسى / Hazaragi هزارگی / English
• Teenagers: Arabic العربية / Farsi فارسى / Hazaragi هزارگی/ English

The Importance of These Toolkits

Child sexual abuse is a critical issue in Australia, with 1 in 4 adults having experienced it during their childhood. This statistic underscores the urgent need for greater community awareness and proactive measures to prevent such abuse. The Conversation Toolkits are vital in this effort, offering practical prompts and guidance for adults to engage in meaningful dialogues with children and young people. By fostering these conversations, adults can contribute to the prevention of child sexual abuse, fulfilling the campaign’s goal of making a difference ‘One Talk at a Time’.

Campaign Key Messages

The ‘One Talk at a Time’ campaign emphasizes several crucial points:

• Child sexual abuse is preventable.
• Conversations with children, young people, and other adults are powerful tools in preventing abuse.
• Proactive, age-appropriate, and positive conversations can make a significant impact.
• Every adult has a role to play in safeguarding children and young people.
• Translated resources are available to assist in starting these important discussions.

Voices from the Community

Educators and psychologists have highlighted the significance of these resources. Ms. Sarin Alvarez, an educator at Buddharangsee Thai Community Language School Inc (BTCL), stresses the importance of educators in initiating and advancing conversations about child sexual abuse. “Recognising the unique position educators hold, it is important for us to begin conversations and advance existing talks on the topic of child sexual abuse,” she said. Alvarez emphasised the role of educators in creating safe spaces for students and guiding parents towards helpful resources.

Similarly, Hua He, a registered psychologist at Inner Space Psychological Service, points out that early education on body safety is crucial in helping children understand and assert their boundaries. “It is important for adults, whether parents, carers, other family members or teachers, to have age-appropriate conversations on this topic with children and young people,” Hua He remarked. She noted that while the topic can be overwhelming, regular discussions are essential for protecting children and ensuring their well-being.

Amplifying the Campaign

The Australian Government encourages the public and organisations to support the campaign by using social media tools, directing audiences to the translated kits, and promoting the urgency of having ‘One Talk at a Time’. Featuring subject matter quotes and highlighting the campaign’s impact can also help spread this important message.

About ‘One Talk at a Time’

‘One Talk at a Time’ is a national initiative aimed at preventing child sexual abuse by fostering ongoing, proactive, and preventative conversations between adults and children. The campaign provides resources and support to help adults tackle this sensitive issue, ensuring that children and young people are protected and empowered.

For more information and to access the Conversation Toolkits, visit ChildSafety.gov.au.