Queensland students say no to bullying

An estimated 570,000 Queensland students are today taking a stand against bullying and cyberbullying.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said activities at more than 1,200 schools across the state were driving home the message as part of the eighth National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

“By any measure, today’s events are a remarkable display by school communities across Queensland to spread the message that bullying is unacceptable,” the Premier said.

“Today we are asking students to imagine a world free from bullying and suggest ways we can achieve that.

“Students have been working on various ways of conveying the message, from videos and plays to art projects, discussions and workshops and today’s activities include open days, community fairs, competitions and sausage sizzles to involve the community as much as possible.

“I want to thank all the students, teachers, principals, parents and other community members who are using today to raise awareness and spread the message.”

The Premier and Minister for Education Grace Grace will today attend a cybersafety workshop at the State Library of Queensland where students will share their thoughts on a wall of anti-bullying messages.

Later, the Premier and Minister will also attend the first meeting of the ground-breaking new Queensland Anti-Cyberbullying Taskforce chaired by Madonna King.

“I am proud to be part of a government whose Premier has put this issue on the national stage and has established the first taskforce of its kind to tackle this pernicious issue,” Minister Grace said.

“The Taskforce has been asked to report recommendations by 31 August 2018 for community and government action and we will act on those recommendations.

“The National Day of Action is a Queensland initiative and our state has consistently had the highest level of participation.

“Students from Prep to Year 12 are taking part today.”

Tonight landmarks across Brisbane will be lit up in orange in support of the National Day of Action.

Media Contact: Geoff Breusch 0417 272 875