Independent MP Kristie Johnston has been successful in having a motion passed to establish an inquiry into discrimination and bullying in Tasmanian Schools by a Tasmanian Parliamentary Committee.
The Terms of Reference on the Inquiry website indicate that the Committee will -
- inquire into and report upon direct and indirect discrimination, prohibited conduct, unequal and disadvantageous treatment, bullying and harassment in Tasmanian schools in regard to students and staff;
- inquire into and report upon the measures necessary to prevent and remedy discrimination and bullying in Tasmanian schools in regard to students and staff;
- examine the obligations and duties of Tasmanian schools under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 and other relevant statutes and policies in regard to students and staff;
- examine and recommend what efforts are being made and should be made towards meeting those obligations by Tasmanian schools in regard to students and staff;
- examine what other legislative or policy reforms may be required to address discrimination and bullying in regard to students and staff;
- determine the impact of discrimination and bullying on student participation, retention and educational outcomes, and on staff recruitment, retention, workplace safety and career development;
- ensure appropriate public consultation is conducted on all matters;
- any other matter incidentals.
The Committee is required to report by 28 November 2024. Submissions are now open for the inquiry and updates in relation to this will be released on the website tomorrow. Advertisements regarding the process will appear in Tasmanian papers on Saturday. The submission deadline will be Friday 26 July 2024.