The Australian Greens will tomorrow present a motion for a Senate inquiry into homophobic and transphobic bullying in schools in response to the Prime Minister’s review of the Safe Schools program.
Greens sexuality spokesperson Senator Robert Simms says the government should be focusing its efforts on the broader issue of combating bullying and transphobia in schools, rather than targeting a program to help young LGBTI people and their families.
“Once again we see Malcolm Turnbull caving into the conservative forces on his backbench. This comes just hours after Senator Cory Bernardi’s rant late last night on this program,” Senator Simms said.
“Opposition to the Safe Schools Coalition seems to be based on the absurd idea that simply by talking about different in sexuality or gender identity you’re going to recruit people. Anyone with the most basic understanding of human sexuality knows how ridiculous that is.”
Senator Simms says the intended Senate inquiry will look at the impacts of transphobic and homophobic bullying and identify ways that young people can be supported.
Greens gender identity spokesperson Senator Janet Rice says that one in five gender diverse young Australians experience physical abuse, asserting that we must do everything we can to support them in schools.
“This week, an inspiring bunch of trans young people have put the case to parliamentarians to reduce the barriers they face,” Senator Rice said.
“Yet the government’s action is putting more [barriers] up.”
Tomorrow’s intended motion will be referred to the Education and Employment References Committee for report by 20 June 2016.
The inquiry will investigate the prevalence and impacts of transphobia and homophobia, with particular reference to their effects on academic performance and long term health, as well as rating current levels of support from the government.
OIP Staff
