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Notice changes in someone you know?
Pulling away from friends and family, becoming angrier than usual, being increasingly focused on certain influencers or new belief systems can be a normal part of learning and forming opinions.
However, sometimes they may also be signs that something more harmful is going on.
It can be hard to know when you should be concerned or what to do next. You don’t need to be certain. If something doesn’t feel right, that’s enough.
Early conversations can make a difference, and you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Step Together is a free support service that provides a safe space to talk things through with a Step Together team member.
You’ll receive practical help and guidance, without judgement.
It can be as simple as a conversation, or if would like more support, we can connect you with the services right for you.
Start a conversation today.
Online chat
Chat online with the Step Together helpline.
Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm*
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For general inquiries and feedback please use our contact form or email us at contact@steptogether.gov.au.
*Step Together Helpline and online chat is not available on national public holidays.
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Concerned about changes in a young person? It could be nothing, but it might be something. Step Together can help you learn the signs.
There's no harm in checkingConcerned about changes in a young person? It could be nothing, but it might be something. Step Together can help you learn the signs.
TranscriptShot 1 Mother in Kitchen
Offscreen young person & track caption: [Young person gaming] Open your eyes! They’re all against us!
[Ominous music]
Shot 2 Teacher in hallway
Voiceover caption: Radicalisation and the path to violent extremism can be subtle.
Voiceover & Sound effects caption: [Door slamming]
If you notice changes in how a young person
Shot 3 Coach on oval
Voiceover & offscreen young
person caption: talks. Behaves.
[Aggressive young person voice] Hey!
Voiceover caption: Or what they believe in.
Shot 4 Dad in car
Offscreen online
video caption: [Online video: People have been asking me what I think, and you know what they got what they deserved]
Voiceover & offscreen
young person caption: It could be nothing,
[Young person laughing] 100 Percent
Shot 5 Mum on couch
[positive uplift in music]
Voiceover caption: but it might be something.
Shot 6 Close up of Website on Phone
Voiceover caption: Visit Step Together to learn the signs and get support. When in doubt, there’s no harm in checking.
Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.
End of transcript.
What is violent extremism
Violent extremism is acts of or support for violence to achieve social, political or legal outcomes or in response to specific political or social grievances.
It exists along a spectrum from passive support to active promotion of violence towards ideological goals.
This should not be confused with radicalisation. Individuals with radical beliefs usually want a drastic change in society, but don't necessarily advocate violence.
Start the Conversation Podcast
Hear from experts and practitioners as they share insights and practical ways to unpack complex topics and start conversations about them.
Explore all Start The Conversation episodes
Violent extremism - Understanding the signs
Pulling away
Withdrawing from friends and family or becoming increasingly isolated.
Growing anger
Becoming angrier than usual or increasingly hostile towards certain people or groups.
Intense interests or beliefs
Becoming deeply involved in online communities, influencers or beliefs that promote hostility, extreme ideas or violence.
Forensic Psychologist Dr Carollyne's story
“I was so pleased to make contact with Step Together. I needed advice for a volatile client of mine and at the same time had some real safety concerns. I was provided vital information and assurance from a senior case manager who assisted in resolving my issues. A wonderful service”.
Reach out for support
Call our helpline
In a safe space, our experienced Step Together team members are here to answer your questions, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Send us an email
Leave us a message anytime and we will get back to you within two business days.
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Sign up for news and information about the Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) space.
Seeking support and advice
For family and friends
It’s important to keep an eye out for behaviour changes and start conversations to protect your loved ones from violent extremism.
Create an environment for positive communication by helping family and friends express their feelings, as well as acknowledging differences.
For your community
Our focus is to build on the strong and welcoming nature of Australia's society, with all its differences.
We work alongside our diverse communities to help build a stronger base for Australia, and minimise the risk of violent extremism influence.
Hear our success stories
Hear powerful stories from individuals and families who found support while navigating the challenges of violent extremism.
Spotlight on Interventions highlights the wholistic nature of case managed intervention programs offered throughout Australia.
Recent articles
Exploring how online content shapes young men's beliefs
& ways to divert pathways to radicalisation
Why are some young Australians drawn to extremism? Understanding vulnerability is key to prevention
Read our insights report to discover what conversations Netflix's Adolescence is sparking
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