The future is looking bright

For NSW Youth Week (9-17 April), we are shining the spotlight on a diverse and dedicated group of young people who are making a huge difference in the community and the care we provide young people.  

The SESLHD Peer Education and Youth Advisory Committee (PEYAC) goes out into the community to provide peer education to young people  and advises SESLHD staff about ways to make our services youth friendly. 

Led and supported by Sexual Health and Blood Borne Virus Service (Projects team and Kirketon Road Centre), and the Youth Health Program in Equity and Prevention, the group has undergone extensive training in sexual health, vaping harms, alcohol and other drugs harm reduction, mental health first aid, and viral hepatitis education. They have also represented SESLHD at a statewide level, including the NSW Drugs Summit.  

The PEYAC members are proud of the work they do. Committee member Jo says: “It feels meaningful and important to contribute to making systematic changes for other young people.” 

"It’s not someone older telling you not to vape,” says Tara. “You are so much more likely to listen to someone your own age.” 

“Talking to young people gives a fresh perspective. The service providers are trying to reach young people like us, so our ideas are so important,” Lizzie says. 

Throughout Youth Week, the PEYAC are attending events across the District to connect with young people, share sexual health messages and talk to other young people about vaping, including the health harms and cessation support.  

Published 14 April 2025