Victoria’s government will introduce new resources for schools to combat online ‘toxic masculinity’ influencers.
Perhaps the most notorious of these is Andrew Tate, a British online content creator who has stated that “women should not be allowed to drive and belong to men in a marriage.”
As Tate’s online following has grown, so has his influence in schools.
In 2023, academics from Monash University published a study on how Tate has infiltrated Australian schools, and the impact it has been having on young people. The study described a sharp increase in sexism, misogyny and sexual harassment in classrooms, and also identified the explicit influence of Tate on students’ attitudes and behaviours.
To tackle this disturbing trend, the Victorian State Government recently announced a plan to introduce new resources into schools to combat online ‘toxic masculinity’ influencers.
Developed by education experts Professor Helen Cahill and Associate Professor Debbie Ollis in consultation with teachers, students and parents – the updated Respectful Relationships resources will assist students in safely navigating issues such as consent, sextortion, pornography and gender-based bullying.
Professor Steven Roberts and Dr Stephanie Wescott from Monash University’s Faculty of Education, hope the resources will help to curb the widespread and disturbing rise in gender-based violence in Victorian schools.
“Teachers report that sexism, misogyny and sexual harassment are rife,” Professor Roberts and Dr Wescott told MCERA. “The influence of Andrew Tate and similar figures on boys’ behaviour and attitudes towards girls and women has been profound. These resources are very much needed.”
Professor Roberts and Dr Wescott said they hope to see school-related gender-based violence continue to be a priority area for the State Government.
“This will ensure adequate support and backing for schools to implement and deliver this program with confidence.”
Education Minister, Ben Carroll, said Victoria is “continuing to lead the nation in delivering the Respectful Relationships program across the state.”
“The updated materials ensure students are taught how to navigate contemporary issues and our continued investment will allow for even more non-government schools to teach Respectful Relationships.”
Victoria’s Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward said the revised resources will help the state’s schools become more respectful.
“Embedding respect into relationships is fundamental to the wellbeing of our kids – for them to feel respected as well as respecting others,” Ward said. “These new resources will give Victorian students even more support to develop relationships based on respect.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Men’s Behaviour Change, Tim Richardson, highlighted the importance of behavioural change in addressing the influence of harmful online influencers.
“Our young people should feel safe – and these resources play an important part in delivering behavioural change across Victoria and combatting toxic influences like Andrew Tate.”