The LNP Opposition has called on the Palaszczuk Labor Government to urgently review a program currently being taught in Queensland schools, which purports to create a safe and inclusive environment for same sex attracted, intersex and gender diverse students, staff and families.
Shadow Education Minister Tim Mander said while the LNP supported the intent of the program which is to prevent bullying in schools related to gender and sexual orientation, he was concerned it had been hijacked by activists.
“Primary school aged children across Queensland now have access to material that teaches adult concepts and no parental approval or notification is required,” Mr Mander said.
He said he agreed with the concerns expressed by child psychiatrists this week about the age-appropriateness of this material.
“Dr Nick Kowalenko, head of child psychiatry at the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, was quoted as saying that teaching about gender diversity may not be appropriate for eleven year olds,” he said.
“I call on Education Minister, Kate Jones, to review this program as a matter of urgency.
“Her review needs to look at why there is secrecy about the program in Queensland. In every other State, parents and members of the community can look up a website for an up-to-date list of the schools that are teaching the program. In Queensland, the names of the schools has been blocked.”
Mr Mander said children were being referred to the website of an organisation called Minus18, which provides details about concepts such as chest binding, penis tucking and cross dressing.
“It even links to commercial websites where children can buy devices online to help them temporarily alter their external appearance.”
Mr Mander said he urged the Palaszczuk Labor Government her not to follow the lead of their Victorian Labor counterparts and mandate this program in Queensland schools.
