This resource was developed in collaboration with headspace, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation. 

Young people often source sexual health information from unreliable sources, risking misinformation and poorer health outcomes. Youth service staff frequently hold trusted relationships with young people seeking, and are well placed to discuss sexual health and support informed decision-making.  

The Talking to Young People About Sexual Health resource is tailored for youth services workers (including peer workers, counsellors, psychologists, case workers, youth workers and other allied health or support staff), providing guidance on how to have confident, non-judgmental conversations about sexual health with young people.  

Developed in collaboration between ASHM and headspace, the resource offers practical conversation tips and listing further resources, reassuring youth service workers that they can offer support and guidance without being sexual health experts. The resource centres a holistic approach, integrating sexual health with relationships and emotional wellbeing, and normalising STI testing.    

ASHM developed ‘The Talking to Young People about Sexual Health’ resource with funding from the Australian Centre for Disease Control.