Strengthening Culture, Aspirations and Identity: The Impact of Deadly Streaming

Deadly Streaming is a culturally grounded education program supporting Aboriginal children from low socio-economic communities in the Hunter Valley. Delivered across five Local Government Areas (LGAs), the program builds cultural identity, personal confidence, and educational aspirations through structured, in-school workshops on choice, respect, identity, strengths, and mentoring.

In Q1, around 75 students participated in the program. Sessions were supported by interactive workbooks and culturally relevant content, helping students engage deeply, attend consistently, and articulate goals for life beyond school. The program's impact has been demonstrated by the growing school waitlist—a clear indicator of its value to both students and educators.

A major milestone this year was the expansion of Deadly Streaming into the Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre, engaging young Aboriginal boys with low education and employment pathways. Feedback from staff and students has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants showing new interest in goal setting and self-belief, underscoring the program’s cultural strength and adaptability.

Deadly Streaming continues to achieve its core outcomes: widening aspirations, strengthening cultural identity, and empowering Aboriginal children to see value in themselves and their futures. With increasing demand and demonstrated success, the program is well placed to expand its reach in 2025, reinforcing educational confidence and community connection.