The Federal Government has launched a $3.5 million initiative targeting harmful social media influences on young men.

The Albanese Government says it wants to help school-aged boys and young men establish healthy and respectful relationships.

To this end, the government has unveiled a three-year, $3.5 million initiative, set to kick off next year, aimed at countering the detrimental effects of social media messages impacting young men and boys. 

These messages often perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes and must be replaced with values of respect and supportive relationships among peers and within themselves.

Known as the “Healthy Masculinities Project”, the trial will use various mediums, including face-to-face interactions through sports clubs and community organisations, along with digital platforms. 

Disturbingly, recent research indicates that 25 per cent of Australian teenage boys look up to social media figures who promote harmful gender stereotypes and endorse violence against women.

This funding forms part of the $11.9 million First Action Plan Priorities Fund, which tackles pressing issues under the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022-32.

Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, has stressed the government's commitment to educating men and boys about the importance of respectful relationships and the value of supportive male friendships. 

She says the initiative serves as a critical first step in understanding how to encourage healthy masculinity among young men and will shape the government's position on the matter.

“Research shows there are strong links between harmful forms of masculinity and the perpetration of violence against women,” said Minister Rishworth.

“Educating boys about healthy masculinity and providing them with positive role models are important steps to ending cycles of violence.

This initiative aligns with Action 1 under the First Action Plan, aiming to promote gender equality and address the root causes of gender-based violence, including altering community attitudes and norms.

The grant round for the trial is set to open in early 2024.

Further information about the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032 can be found on the Department of Social Services website.