The following residents of the ACT draw to the attention of the Assembly that students present to all schools, government and non-government, with a range of personal characteristics, including diversity in gender identity and presentation, sexual orientation and intersex status.
As an inclusive community, Canberrans overwhelmingly support schools respecting, welcoming and celebrating diversity and encouraging children to be themselves.
When this does not occur, children can face bullying and discrimination that damages mental health, lowers academic achievement, lowers rates of school attendance and increases rates of self-harm and suicide.
Your petitioners, therefore, request the Assembly to support the Government's efforts to ensure all children are safe and supported at any school, and support the ACT Safe and Inclusive Schools initiative being available to all ACT schools.