Isuzu Australia extends support for Life Education Victoria

A leading provider of health and wellbeing education, Life Education Victoria is continuing to evolve with the times, tackling issues faced by Victoria’s preschool and primary school children. 

With the backing of the State Government’s Department of Education, Life Ed Victoria delivers curriculum-based programs designed to give young people the skills to make informed decisions about their health. 

Their empowering school incursion program is an interactive session that features their beloved and well-known mascot, Healthy Harold. 

Ensuring that the program can continue to reach those who need it, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has re-confirmed its long-standing financial commitment and support of Life Ed Victoria. 

Close to home 

IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Harbison, said the educational program held a special place in the hearts of its 170-strong staff—many of whom are based at the company’s headquarters in Melbourne—and throughout its broad network of dealerships. 

“Isuzu Australia and our wider national network is comprised of people that have not only benefited from Life Education over the years, but who also have children receiving the benefits of this much-needed program,” said Mr Harbison. 

“We’re delighted to once again partner with this outstanding organisation. 

“We share in Life Ed Victoria’s vision of having healthy young people living up to their full potential and we recognise the important role they continue to play in delivering critical education on a range of health and wellbeing topics.” 

Impacting young lives 

Life Education was first established in Sydney’s inner suburbs in 1979 by the Reverend Ted Noffs, at a time when illicit drugs and alcohol were having a profound impact on the everyday lives of young people in the area.  

Since its inception, Life Education estimates it has reached over 7.5 million young Australians. Today, it impacts around 700,000 children each year in over 4,000 unique school locations with the assistance of its specially trained educators. 

Participating preschool and primary school children receive education on a range of important health and wellbeing issues such as: 

• Drugs and alcohol 

• Relationships and sexuality education 

• Online safety 

• Physical health 

• Respectful relationships  

Mission possible 

Samantha Nanni, Chief Executive Officer of Life Ed Victoria, said the program welcomed the support of local businesses such as IAL. 

“Life Ed Victoria can only do what it does with the support of organisations like Isuzu Australia, who have partnered with us for nine years now,” she commented. 

“While the financial contribution is certainly welcomed, it's Isuzu’s active involvement that ensures Life Ed Victoria continues to reach thousands of children each year, so we are thrilled to receive the support.” 

Education for now

Life Ed Victoria’s programs are continually being updated to meet the needs of the time, addressing current health and wellbeing issues that arise from events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, noted Ms Nanni.

“The social impact on children from COVID is still very much at the forefront and we have adapted our programs to include socialising skills and how to engage with others.

“With the increase in vaping in younger children, we are making them more aware of the impact of how that choice can affect their lives.

“We need to give kids the smarts to deal with the hard stuff,” Ms Nanni continued.

“The issues certainly evolve with time, but the messaging around education remains the same.

“With Healthy Harold front and centre, plus Isuzu’s support driving us along, Life Ed Victoria continues to reach every corner of the state.”