Centre Against Violence (CAV) is proud to announce that two of Australia’s most inspiring athletes, AFL great Ben Brown and netball star Kiera Austin, have joined forces to endorse CAV’s free Tackling Consent program.
Their involvement marks an exciting new chapter for this values-led initiative, which supports footy and netball clubs across the Ovens and Murray region to lead conversations about consent, respect, and safe club culture.
Ben Brown is admired not only for his premiership career with Melbourne Football Club, but also for his commitment to using sport as a platform for positive social change.
Now head of development for AFLW at Essendon Football Club, Ben has built a career that reflects his passion for inclusion, gender equality, and social justice.
A dedicated champion of women’s football since 2017, he has worked as a specialist AFLW coach and is a familiar presence as a commentator and panellist on AFLW programs.
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Known for his personable nature and driven by values of empathy, kindness, and hard work instilled by his family, Ben brings authenticity and vision to every role he takes on.
He continues to believe deeply in the power of professional athletes to enrich communities, support young people, and drive cultural progress.
Brown said sporting clubs are incredibly significant places for young people, providing a perfect setting to help them to develop healthy, safe and secure relationships.
"CAV's Tackling Consent program provides an opportunity to start important conversations that all young people should be having," he said.
Kiera Austin has become one of Australia’s most exciting netballers, representing the Diamonds at the elite international level and inspiring young players across the country.
Austin’s immense talent, accurate shooting, confidence on court and creativity in attack have made her an invaluable asset to the Diamonds squad.
After recovering from injury, she returned in time for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and has continued to shine ever since, cementing her place as a world-class athlete.
Her resilience, professionalism, and brilliance on court are matched by her commitment to creating safe and supportive sporting environments.
Kiera recognises that her own pathway to the top of her game was possible because of the culture of care she experienced as a young player.
Austin said she wouldn't have made a career as a professional netball player if she didn't feel safe or supported at her club growing up.
"I’m proud to join CAV’s Tackling Consent program to help create sporting communities where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered" she said.
"Every person deserves that foundation to thrive.”
Tackling Consent is a free program designed for young people aged 12 to 17 who play netball and football in the Ovens and Murray region.
Set to roll out for the 2026 season, it will combine workshops, leadership support, and video presentations featuring both Ben and Kiera to give clubs the tools and confidence to build cultures where young people feel respected and valued.
The program encourages honest conversations, highlights positive role models, and celebrates the good work already happening in clubs.
The project is a partnership between CAV and La Trobe University’s Reducing Gender-Based Violence (ReGEN) Research Group, and is proudly funded through the Partners in Prevention of Sexual Violence Project.
Spots are limited, with 10 clubs set to participate in the 2026 season.
Clubs that sign on will join a growing network of sporting communities leading the way in respect, inclusion, and positive culture.
Clubs can register now at https://forms.office.com/r/XujM0QfTUk.
For a chat about how this program could work with your club, please contact CAV's Kelly Timms at 03 5722 2203 or education@cav.org.au.
