Blog

More than 4,000 young women across Australia have already enrolled in the Stars Program this year – marking a record start to 2026 and highlighting the growing impact of the Program in communities nationwide.

Delivered in 80 partner schools across the country, the Stars Program is built on choice, trust and empowerment. Enrolment is voluntary, with students choosing to join the program themselves, supported by the consent and encouragement of their parent or caregiver.

That sense of ownership is central to the program’s success — giving young people agency in shaping their future while building strong connections to school, culture and community.

Stars Program Focus

Term 1 has involved myriad activities guided by the four pillars of the Star Plan designed to improve health and education outcomes. These include:

• Education, Training and Employment – encourages active engagement in education and the development of positive plans for a successful transition into employment or further study.
• Healthy Lifestyles – addresses healthy habits for life including nutrition, self-care, personal hygiene, sport and fitness.
• Wellbeing – focuses on personal wellbeing and mental health.
• Community, Culture and Leadership – celebrates First Nations culture and encourages activity within communities which develops confidence and pride.

Year 12 Stars Gather in Northern NSW for Future Planning

A Year 12 Induction brought together 17 senior Stars students from Gunnedah, Tamworth and Inverell High Schools for two days of connection, learning and future planning.

The event was hosted by the wonderful team at the UNE Oorala Aboriginal Centre, who created a welcoming space and shared an overview of UNE programs including Nursing, Teaching and Sports Science by giving students a hands-on look at possible future study pathways. They also took part in a powerful yarning session and spent time building friendships and confidence as they prepare for their final year of school.

A highlight of the induction was writing a ‘Letter to My Future Self, reflecting on their goals, strengths and hopes for life after Year 12. We are so proud of these young women and excited to walk alongside them throughout their Year 12 journey.

Year 12 Stars Student Appointed School Captain in VIC 

Congratulations to Year 12 Stars student, Ruby, from Robinvale College in north-western Victoria, on achieving the prestigious honour of being named School Captain.

Ruby’s appointment is a testament to her leadership, dedication, and the positive example she sets for those around her. Throughout her journey, she has continued to demonstrate resilience, confidence, and a strong commitment to her school community.

The Stars team is incredibly proud of Ruby and excited to see all she will achieve in her final year. We have no doubt she will continue to inspire others, lead with integrity, and leave a legacy.

Year 7 Stars Embrace Adventure at SA Camp

Under wide open skies at Woodhouse Adventure Park, the newest cohort of South Australia’s Year 7 Stars students stepped into something special. The Stars SA induction camp wasn’t just a welcome, it was the beginning of a journey.

The day began with a chance to discover what being part of the Stars program truly means. Students gathered to learn about the heart of Stars: the support available to them, the resources they can lean on, the incentives that celebrate their efforts, and the values and expectations that guide the Program. This understanding helps students recognise the opportunities ahead and the strong Stars network behind them.

And then, the adventure began! Laughter echoed across the park as students split into groups. From tackling the heights of Challenge Hill to testing their aim in disc golf, diving into the excitement of laser skirmish, and finding calm through yoga, every activity brought new energy and connection. Each challenge wasn’t just about fun, it was about teamwork, confidence, and discovering strengths.

By the end of the camp, something powerful had formed – new friendships, stronger connections and a sense of belonging – ready to take on the year ahead, together.

Stars Students Honour ANZAC Soldiers in QLD

Year 5 and Year 10 students from Western Cape College in Weipa, QLD, participated in the Napranum Community Anzac Day Ceremony and paid tribute to those who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

The ceremony provided a meaningful opportunity for students to reflect on the extraordinary bravery and commitment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and women, many of whom volunteered to serve Australia despite discriminatory laws at the time preventing them from officially enlisting.

Through their participation, students honoured the enduring legacy of First Nations soldiers and deepened their understanding of the sacrifice, resilience, and service that ANZAC Day represents for communities across Australia.

Tennant Creek Stars Walk Alongside Women’s Refuge in NT

The Tennant Creek Women’s Refuge is dedicated to empowering women and children and provides vital support, accommodation, and protection to women.

As part of the Stars Program’s commitment to Community, Culture and Leadership, the Tennant Creek Stars Program has built an ongoing collaboration with the local Refuge. In past years, this collaboration has included the cooking of kangaroo tails for Reconciliation Week; participation in the White Ribbon Day sign art project in collaboration with Connected Beginnings; involvement in the No More Violence March; and participation in International Women’s Day events and marches alongside community members and organisations.

The collaboration has also included sessions with the Women’s Refuge counsellor, where students have engaged in conversations and activities around healthy relationships, identifying safe people, self-care, confidence building, and affirmations. Through these experiences, students develop a greater understanding of wellbeing, support services, and the importance of walking alongside those in need while making meaningful connections within community.

As part of this ongoing partnership and support for young women in community, the Women’s Refuge recently shared care bags with Stars students which included toiletries and sanitary products. The care bags provided practical support while also reinforcing to the girls that they are recognised, valued, and supported within the Tennant Creek community. Partnerships like this strengthen community and ensure our young women feel empowered, supported, and confident in their everyday lives.