Advocates have called on Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, to put his money where his mouth is and fund LGBTI safety and inclusion programs in schools.

 

The call comes after Mr Turnbull announced March 16 will be a national day of action against bullying in schools.

 

Just.equal spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said,

 

"LGBTI young people continue to experience higher-than-average levels of prejudice, discrimination and harassment."

 

"The solution is funded programs that specifically raise awareness about LGBTI issues, not just generic programs that tell students to be nice and polite."

 

"With the end of funding to Safe Schools, it's up to the Federal Government to work with the states to develop an alternative that continues to make schools safer and more inclusive for LGBTI students."

 

"Mr Turnbull should put his money where his mouth is and fund programs that will actually reduce bullying in schools, including bullying against LGBTI students."

 

Mr Croome said the Tasmanian inclusive schools program funded by the state Liberal Government to promote inclusion for LGBTI students, could be a national model.

 

"The Tasmanian inclusive schools program has tri-partisan and community support, and is working well to tackle anti-LGBTI prejudice in schools."

 

"I urge Mr Turnbull to consider funding a national program based on the Tasmanian model."

 

For a copy of this statement on the web, click here