Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said bullying and violence had absolutely no place in our schools and the onus was on communities to stand up and say it is not acceptable.
Mr Entsch, who visited Bamaga Senior School, Bamaga Junior School and Injinoo Junior Campus last week, said it was time that parents, kids and the community took a stand against bullying.
His visit coincided with National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence events taking place across the nation.
“I firmly believe all students have the right to be safe at school. Bullying and violence has no place in not only our society, but especially our schools,” Mr Entsch said.
“This is our chance to stand together. Together we can reduce the incidence of bullying, whether inside the school gate or online, and eliminate it wherever we can.
“No child should suffer in silence anymore. No child should feel that there is only one option available to them to escape their tormentors.”
Mr Entsch said parents and children needed to stand-up, make a pledge and a commitment that they won’t be the cause of another person’s torment.
“While schools and educators have a key role to play in tackling bullying, we also know the important role parents and families play,” he said.
“Parents need to show leadership, educate their children and say that bullying and violence is unacceptable.
“Any parent would be absolutely heartbroken and devastated if they learnt their child was being bullied, but the onus is also on them to ensure their child is not a tormentor.”
“Together, as a community, we can tackle this scourge to protect the one’s we love the most . . . our children.”