Schools in the electorate of Fairfax will take a stand against bullying today, with students set to participate in the country’s key annual anti-bullying event.
Federal Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien, said that nothing riles him more than bullying.
“To unfairly pick on others, to bully people — whether in the home, the workplace or the school yard — is cowardice. Bullies are cowards. Despite trying to project strength or power, they’re just cowards at heart.
And so today, on this national day of action against bullying, let’s stand together and make it crystal clear to any bullies in our midst … you want to bully, then you are un-Australian and the rest of us aren’t going to cop it,” Mr O’Brien said.
Mr O’Brien said it was great to see so many schools and students sending a clear message that bullying and violence have no place in Australia.
“From poster competitions to pledge walls, special events and lessons, our local schools are using the National Day of Action to find workable solutions that address bullying and violence,” Mr O’Brien said.
“All schools that have registered their participation will have access to an extensive range of teaching resources and materials to help make the day a success.”
Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said 1.88 million students across 4,355 schools would take part in today’s National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.
“We’ve seen school involvement almost double since last year and this year marks the highest participation levels in the event’s eight-year history,” Minister Birmingham said.
“It’s clear from this response that students, schools and families want to keep the conversation going about bullying and violence.
“Whilst there is no ‘silver bullet’ for addressing bullying, when we have all levels of government, community and health organisations, schools and families working together, we can help ensure students no longer have to Imagine a world free from bullying, but that they can live in one.
“Thank you to all the schools that have chosen to participate today. You are leading the way in taking a strong stance against bullying and violence.”
For more information visit: www.bullyingnoway.gov.au