Youthrive Victoria

Formerly known as Macpherson Smith Rural Foundation, Youthrive Victoria was established in 2008  with a vision that Victorian regional and rural communities will be thriving with strong input from skilled, resilient and motivated young people.

Young people in regional Victoria often navigate limited local opportunities, geographic isolation, financial pressures and the risk of losing community connection. Youthrive Victoria addresses these challenges by providing support to young people that builds confidence, connection and capability.

Branch Out Mentoring is one of the organisation’s initiatives that supports young people to transition from Year 12 to further education, vocational training, or the workforce. Designed specifically for Year 12 students in rural and regional communities, peer mentors present sessions to students to help them plan and navigate their next steps beyond school.

With support from the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, Branch Out Mentoring will expand to reach more schools across Victoria. The program’s focus on empowering resilient and motivated young people aligns strongly with the Trust’s long‑standing commitment to building connected, thriving and sustainable Victorian communities.