So far more than 900 submissions have been received from families, young people, teachers and community members from across the country.
The majority of submissions have come from parents, who have emphasised the importance of clear communication for the intervention and management of bullying.
According to Australian anti-bullying website Bullying No Way, approximately one in four Australian Year 4-9 students (27 per cent) reported being bullied every few weeks or more often.
In 85 per cent of bullying interactions, peers are present as onlookers and play a central role in the bullying process. Enhancing social status with peers is the most commonly reported motivator for bullying.
Submissions from teachers have highlighted the need for resources and training to help them respond to bullying incidents.
The submissions from young people are highlighting the importance of needing to be heard, listened to and valued.
Minister for Education Jason Clare said bullying is not just something that happens in schools, but schools are places where we can intervene and provide support for students.
“All students and staff should be safe at school, and free from bullying and violence,” Clare said.
“That’s why we’re taking action to develop a national standard to address bullying in schools.
The Anti-Bullying Rapid Review is a key part of the Government’s plans to develop a consistent national approach to addressing bullying in Australian schools.
The Review, being led by Dr Charlotte Keating and Dr Jo Robinson AM, is examining current school procedures and best practice methods to address bullying behaviours.
The Review will consult broadly with key stakeholders across metropolitan and regional Australia, including parents, teachers, students, parent groups, state education departments and the non-government sector.
Submissions will help in understanding the different approaches to responding to bullying in schools and the effectiveness of them.
“Last year we worked together to ban mobile phones in schools,” Clare said.
“This is another opportunity for us to support students, teachers and parents across the country.
“We will listen to parents, teachers, students and work with the states and territories to get this right.”
The final report of the Review will be presented to all state and territory education ministers in coming months.
Submissions opened on May 20 and will close this Friday, June 20.
Click here to make a submission. Submissions can be made anonymously if preferred.
