Our Values

AYSA is guided by social justice principles of access, equity, rights and participation.

At AYSA, we firmly believe that all children and young people deserve respect for their human rights, as described in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Recognising that some children and young people feel excluded from meaningful participation within society based on their political, economic, social and developmental status, our work strives to resolve this imbalance.

In all that we do, we stand by these principles.

1. Advocacy

We take action to help young people say what they want; and we work hard to secure their rights, represent their interests and help them access the services they need. In our role as advocates, we promote social inclusion, equality and justice – with the goal of gaining more community support for young people and their issues.

2. Empowerment

We strive to empower young people, families and significant others with the ability, authority and agency to make decisions and implement change. It’s an attitudinal, structural and cultural process.

3. Holistic Approach

We see young people within the contexts of their family, community, school, education and employment. We also consider their critical needs: cultural, health and wellness, local environment, economic and democratic participation.

4. Community Based

We recognise that young people and their families are an integral, valued part of the community. We encourage them to engage with the community and draw from its strengths. As part of this, we facilitate links between young people and support networks – whether services, resources or opportunities.

5. Youth Focused

The young person is the primary client and the centre of the case management process.

6. Strengths Based

Our work emphasises a young person’s self-determination and resilience. We support young people to identify and use their own strengths and problem-solving abilities to address problems or crises. Support is client-led with a focus on future outcomes.

7. Innovative

We explore best practice through reflection, research, networking and training to seek creative, evidence-based ways to identify gaps in services and effectively support young people. We build on community capacity through education and information provision.

8. Communication

We communicate with clients, colleagues and the broader community in ways that are respectful, transparent and empowering.