Our lives project

• Reach:

  NT

• Focus area:

  Indigenous

• Status:

  Current

• Evaluated:

  No

Overview

This Our lives project is a research study that seeks to address the significant burden of sexual ill health experienced by Indigenous youth by examining the role of relationships in the sexual health and wellbeing of young Indigenous people. The study is guided by three interrelated aims:

• to investigate sexual behaviour and sexual decision making in the context of the everyday life experience and aspirations of Indigenous young people, aged 16-25 years, from the Northern Territory, South Australia, and Western Australia
• understand young people's decisions about their sexual health and required health services
• to increase the capacity of service providers to deliver effective services for young people.

It is anticipated that the study will provide insight into how young Indigenous people understand and negotiate sexuality and relationships, including the risk behaviours they engage in and the major influences on their lives. This knowledge can then be used to develop and deliver effective, targeted education and health promotion programs and resources.

This is a collaborative research study led by Menzies School of Health Research. Numerous government and non-government organisations are participating in this study, including the Northern Territory Sexual Health and Blood Borne Virus Unit, Mission Australia, and Danila Dilba Health Service.

Abstract adapted from the Menzies School of Health Research

Contacts

Belinda Davison
Project Manager
Menzies School of Health Research
Ph: (08) 8922 8852
Email: Belinda.davison@menzies.edu.au

Links

• View resource: Our lives: culture, context and risk (PDF - 128.5 KB)
• View information: Our lives project
• View website: Menzies School of Health Research