24 Feb 2025
Last week (February 20, 2025), the Albury Project Partnership was once again out in schools, conducting over 2,000 surveys as part of its annual effort to proactively support young people. Now in its seventh year, this community-led early intervention model has helped identify and assist thousands of students before small challenges turn into major obstacles.
Since its launch in 2018, the Albury Project has now conducted over 14,000 surveys, ensuring that students who started Year 7 in 2019 have received consistent support every year of their high school journey. Through a collaborative approach that brings together local schools and community services, the project continues to reduce disadvantage, improve student outcomes, and create real change.
By identifying students at risk of disengagement, homelessness, or mental health struggles before crisis points arise, the Albury Project ensures that young people and their families can access the right support at the right time. The initiative is driven by a partnership between Yes Unlimited (lead agency), headspace Albury-Wodonga, Albury City Council, Child Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS), the Department of Communities and Justice, and the three public high schools—Albury High, James Fallon, and Murray High.
The annual Australian Index of Adolescent Development (AIAD) survey remains a key tool in tracking student wellbeing. Schools and services then work together to provide tailored responses, from mental health support and mentoring to financial aid, practical resources, and family interventions.
Carolyn Ratcliffe, Head Teacher Wellbeing at Albury High School, highlights the critical role the project plays in student support:
“The Albury Project operates in close collaboration with our school’s Wellbeing team. This partnership enables a range of valuable support services designed to address the varied needs of our student body. The coordinated efforts ensure that assistance is available not only during standard school hours but also during out-of-hours and holiday periods.
The long-standing relationship with The Albury Project has underscored the importance of having a dependable support system. The project’s involvement has become integral to the school’s ability to manage and address student needs effectively.”
With the ongoing success of this award-winning program, the Albury Project continues to prove that early intervention works—and that when it comes to supporting young people, earlier is always better.
For more information about the Albury Project and its impact, contact Yes Unlimited at 02 6058 6200.