A statement by Doctor Katrina Lines, Chief Executive Officer on behalf of Act for Kids
Act for Kids welcomes the Queensland Government’s decision to review sexual consent education programs in schools.
Whilst we support the decision, Act for Kids has been calling on all political leaders to urgently review the standard of all protective behaviours programs in the school curriculum since the October election.
Sadly, we know a lot of parents are not having valuable conversations with their children about sex or sexual consent, which is leading to unrealistic expectations.
As it stands, many programs currently delivered in Queensland schools remain ad hoc and inconsistent.
We believe there must be mandated evidence based programs in schools to address interpersonal safety and sexual consent so that children and young people can learn about healthy, safe relationships and safe sex.
Act for Kids own research found that although three quarters (78%) of Australians blame inappropriate sexual behaviours on access to online content, worryingly, parents are not taking the necessary precautions to protect their children online.
A major concern is that two-thirds (67%) of parents to children under 12 feel they need more education on how to protect their kids from accessing inappropriate content, which is why schools have an important role to play to educate children about sex education.
Please find attached the letter we wrote to the Premier, the Leader of the Opposition and all other party leaders last year.
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For Interview Opportunities, Please contact Jess Mumme:
M: 0427 794 666
E: jess.mumme@actforkids.com.au