Sharon Torpey (DARTA)

Sharon Torpey – Empowering Young People Through Real, Honest Drug Education

As the Founder and Director of Drug Education Australia, Sharon Torpey is a leading voice in delivering high-impact, evidence-based drug education to school communities, sporting groups, and music festivals. With over 25 years as a qualified Physical Education and Health teacher, Sharon has a rare gift for connecting with young people and their families in both primary and secondary settings.

Her 15-year partnership with VicRoads—facilitating learner driver education and the powerful “Look After Our Mates” drink/drug driving program—reflects her deep commitment to youth wellbeing and community responsibility.

Sharon’s sessions are anything but textbook. Through The Drug Education Project, she creates safe, inclusive, and genuinely engaging environments where young people feel empowered to ask questions and make informed choices about drugs and alcohol. Her strength lies in her ability to break down complex topics with warmth, clarity, and a non-judgmental approach—making her one of the most sought-after educators in the field.

She doesn't stop at the school gates! Sharon also volunteers with DanceWize, a peer-led harm reduction initiative at music festivals, taking education to where young people are and delivering it in real-time, real-world contexts.

Whether she’s in a classroom, a sports club, or a festival crowd, Sharon’s goal is simple: to equip young people with the knowledge, confidence, and tools they need to make safer, healthier decisions.