The purpose of the Department of Education Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy is to enable schools to provide supportive environments free from discriminatory practices and harassment and to promote respect and physical and emotional safety. The Policy and associated materials support the Supportive School Communities Policy Framework (2003-07) and the Department's Equity in Schooling Policy (1995) which articulate a clear commitment to providing fair and equitable access to the benefits of schooling for all young people.
Discrimination and harassment are unacceptable. Social and educational outcomes for all students can be adversely affected by incidents of discrimination and harassment in schools. School staff have a responsibility to provide teaching and learning environments free from harassment and discrimination in all forms, including those based on race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, ability, disability, sexuality, physical characteristics or religion. Schools must protect students from harassment based on sexual orientation and sexual identity just as they protect students from other forms of harassment.
Associated Legislation and Policy documents
The policy is further supported by a range of national and state legislation including: the Tasmanian State Service Act (2000), the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Act (1998), the Sex Discrimination Act (1994), the Disability Discrimination Act (1992), the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act (1986), and the Racial Discrimination Act (1975).
The Adelaide Declaration on Schooling for the 21st century (1999) states that
"By providing a supportive and nurturing environment, schooling contributes to the development of students' sense of self-worth, enthusiasm for learning and optimism for the future." 1
Goal 3 of the Declaration is in part that
"Schooling should be socially just so that students' outcomes from schooling are free from the effects of negative forms of discrimination."
The National Safe Schools Framework (2003-07) commits all schools in Australia to establishing safe and inclusive environments promoting care, respect and diversity.
The National Values Framework (2004-08) promotes values including care and compassion, respect, integrity and a commitment to tolerance, understanding and inclusion.
The Tasmania Together goals (2001-2020) include confident, friendly and safe communities and vibrant, inclusive and growing communities where people feel valued and connected. Key priorities include reducing discrimination based on sexual orientation and increasing teacher professional learning in sexuality issues.
1. Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs, 1999, Adelaide Declaration on Schooling for the 21st century.
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Medical and health care
Supportive school communities
Introduction