From school classrooms to community spaces and beyond, we inspire kindness and courage to transform bystander behaviour Upstander confidence.
Who We Are
Courage to Care NSW is a leading educational non-profit organisation that provides age-appropriate school programs designed to inspire Upstander behaviour and combat discrimination.
Our Upstander Programs are delivered to primary and secondary school students right across regional NSW, QLD and ACT by a dedicated network of skilled and passionate volunteers. We also engage the broader community through collaborative programs and public exhibitions.
What We Do
We provide a space for young Australians to unpack discrimination and to gain the tools, knowledge and confidence to respond to it safely, with courage and kindness — inspiring them to be Upstanders in their everyday lives and communities.
Our Primary School Program (Stages 2-3, for Years 3–6) introduces Upstander values through age-appropriate stories and activities that build understanding of kindness, empathy and inclusion. In our Secondary School Program (Stages 4-6, for Years 7–12), students explore these themes in greater depth through facilitated workshops and powerful stories shared by Holocaust Survivor Speakers or their descendants (custodian storytellers).
Age-appropriate Upstander Programs for different stages of learning.
Primary Schools
Stages 2-3 • for Years 3-6
- Kindness, empathy and inclusion
- Understanding stereotypes and discrimination
- Safe, practical Upstander actions
Secondary Schools
Stages 4-6 • for Years 7-12
- Prejudice, discrimination and moral courage
- Holocaust history and living testimony
- Practical tools to be an Upstander
Free to schools
We come to you
Flexible delivery
Curriculum-aligned
25+ years delivery
Since our establishment in 1998 as a traveling exhibition program, we have grown into one of Australia's leading providers of anti-discrimination education and Upstander advocacy.
Our Impact
We’ve reached over 200,000 students with our powerful Upstander Programs — helping them turn bystander behaviour into Upstander confidence.
Independent evaluations show significant increases in student empathy and Upstander behaviour after our visits. Students tell us they feel more confident to show kindness, support others and safely stand up against discrimination — and teachers see these values and behaviours carry back into the classroom.
From building kindness, empathy and inclusion in primary schools to challenging prejudice and discrimination with secondary students, our age-appropriate programs give young people the confidence and practical tools to make a positive difference in their everyday lives.
Our impact also extends beyond the classroom. Across 71 exhibitions over 26 years, Courage to Care has brought its message of kindness, inclusion, resilience and courage to communities across Australia.
“The program had a very strong impact on me. It inspired me and motivated me to be the positive change I want to see in the world.”
Year 12 student,
NEWCASTLE
“The program has fostered a shift in students’ behaviour, promoting greater empathy and understanding of one another. It has created a strong foundation for meaningful discussions about inclusivity.”
Teacher,
CANBERRA
“I will definitely try to support and talk to more people who look they may be having a bad day! I will do this knowing a small conversation make a big difference to someone.”
Year 10 student,
ST. IVES
“The way Courage to Care connects Holocaust tragedies to something that can be learned to empower young people to stand up for what is right today is profound and important.”
Teacher,
WESTERN SYDNEY
“By telling stories of ordinary people being extraordinarily courageous in standing up against discrimination, Courage to Care inspires others to do the same. We commend you on such an innovative and positive contribution to a more inclusive society.”
Kevin Cocks AM,
Fmr QLD Human Rights Commissioner
“The Courage to Care team were passionate, knowledgeable and extremely easy to engage with during the administration phase. I would definitely recommend this program for your school!”
Teacher,
LUCAS HEIGHTS
“Ernie’s story and positivity was really inspiring – not only was it interactive, but it also inspired my friend to tell us his family’s story. It had a profound impact on me and highlighted the importance of being an Upstander.”
Year 12 student
WOLLONGONG
“Sharing your message of empowerment and tolerance with local students and guiding them to be better human beings spreads a wave of positivty throughout the community. We are so very grateful and wish you all the best in the continuation of your wonderful work!”
Service Coordinator,
LIVERPOOL CITY COUNCIL
Results from our Upstander Programs
In our Secondary School Program, hearing a powerful story of survival and resilience from a Holocaust Survivor or custodian storyteller is a deeply moving experience — connecting the lessons of the past with the choices we make today.
Want to Help Create the Next Generation of Upstanders?
Book A Program
Bring our Upstander education to your school, workplace or community organisation.
Support The Mission
Learn about volunteering opportunities and the difference your donation can make.
Explore Our Impact
Watch our programs in action, view moving stories and learn about our current projects.
Make a Difference Today
Your contribution matters. Support our work today by making a tax-deductible donation.
Every dollar counts towards bringing our message of tolerance, compassion and kindness to more Australians. Together, we can create the Next Generation of Upstanders.
Stay Connected
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