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The NSW Department of Communities and Justice’s Engagement and Support Program (ESP) is a voluntary, consent-based program that aims to assist individuals and their families, to make positive changes that limits their risk of involvement in violent extremism. The wholistic nature of the program addresses the need for lasting change once the client exits the program.
Our dedicated ESP case managers work with people who are vulnerable to violent extremist influence by building protective factors and helping develop a positive sense of identity, belonging and self-worth. They help clients to:
Participation in the ESP is voluntary, and we respect the privacy of our clients.
Each client is assigned a case manager, who works with them to set goals with the aim of limiting their risk of participating in violent extremism. A senior psychologist also works closely with the case manager to provide regular advice, tailored to each client. The ESP may also support the families and relevant associates of participants.
Each client’s case plan details the services and activities put in place to help them reach their goals. The plan is designed to provide support in various areas of the client’s life, including arranging tailored mental health and social support.
The ESP is not a ‘de-radicalisation’ program. It does not directly attempt to alter political, religious, or ideological beliefs of an individual. Rather, it provides a range of tailored support services that address their vulnerabilities and build positive connections to help the client.
The ESP is delivered by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, and forms part of the National Support and Intervention Program. Client case management is supported by a panel of representatives from government agencies who provide specialist advice from divisions across the Department of Communities and Justice in the areas of Child Protection, Corrective Services and Community Corrections, and Youth Justice. The panel also includes representatives from NSW Police, the NSW Department of Education and NSW Health.
The program is funded by the Commonwealth government as part of the National Support and Intervention Program (NSIP) and NSW Government within its Countering Violent Extremism Strategy.
Individuals who you may think are at risk can be referred to the program by government and non-government organisations. The program is open to those vulnerable to negative violent extremist influence and, in certain cases, those who may have previously engaged in violent extremist behaviour. The program is open to clients aged 10 years and over. Involvement in the program has no set time limit, and clients can participate more than once.
Download the ESP Referral form (PDF, 167.7 KB) and email to esp@dcj.nsw.gov.au and we'll be in touch as soon as possible.
A Reference Guide (PDF, 483.3 KB) is also available, which provides further guidance on how to complete the Referral form.
Contact us now to assess eligibility or to ask any questions by calling 1800 203 966 or vial email at esp@dcj.nsw.gov.au.
Visit Spotlight on Interventions to hear from real people who have been helped by the ESP program.
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