A 12-year-old girl, walking home from school. And a man, on the other side of the street. Shouting. "Hey sweetheart. How much for an hour?"

It was years ago, but Natalie Petrellis, now a 19-year-old student, still remembers his exact words. "I didn't really understand what he meant but I still found it intimidating."

Deakin student Natalie Petrellis, 19. Credit:Joe Armao

Since then she has copped more vulgar intimidation on the street. But just as disheartening has been watching other young women internalise chauvinist attitudes and curb their ambitions.

Young women are turning their backs on leadership or politics because of an overwhelming perception of growing sexism in Australia, according to a survey by child rights organisation Plan International Australia.