The campaign aims to help protect the one in five Australian children who will be sexually assaulted in some way before their 18th birthday.

Shoalhaven Bravehearts regional co-ordinator Wendy Woodward said the biggest role they play is in education.

“We are asking local schools and the community to fly a white balloon on September 12 and get involved in the events leading up to Child Protection Week,” she said.

“The national campaign is encouraging Australians to act for the protection of children.

“Recently the government donated Ditto-In-A-Box for all local schools, a resource tool, which has been found to be extremely valuable in the education of young children.”

Now in its 18th year, White Balloon Day raises money for the education, counselling, training and case management services to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

The Shoalhaven Bravehearts also have their annual spring ball on October 11 which Ms Woodward said is a great way to involve teenagers.

“We still have a few local schools that have not picked up their Ditto-In-A-Box and we would like to encourage them to do so,” she said.

“The resource is great for teachers.”

For more information on White Balloon Day and the #whoRUprotecting selfie campaign visit www.whiteballoonday.com.au.

For more information on the Shoalhaven Bravehearts contact Wendy Woodward on 0417 061 316.