SA Education Minister Susan Close says Federal Government must reverse decision to cut Safe Schools funding

STATE Education Minister Susan Close has called on the Federal Government to reverse its decision to cut funding to the Safe Schools program from next year.

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STATE Education Minister Susan Close has called on the Federal Government to reverse its decision to cut funding to the Safe Schools program from next year.

On Friday the Federal Government announced the education program, which supports gender and sexual diversity, would be scaled back following a backlash from conservative MPs and an independent review.

“Safe Schools is a positive and caring anti-bullying program that offers teaching resources and people to support kids, schools and families to support emerging sexuality and gender identification,” Dr Close posted on Facebook.

“The Federal Government has received its review — which is supportive of the program and its resources — and responded with actions not recommended in the review, and with cutting its funding from next year.

“I’m massively disappointed the Government has let our kids, families and schools down. “Fortunately there’s a federal election before the axe swings — let’s have the moderate voice heard in Canberra.”

Victoria has committed to funding Safe Schools when the Commonwealth pulls the pin.

In response to a question on Facebook on whether South Australia would do the same, Dr Close said: “Right now — in a fed(eral) election year — I’m not inclined to let them off the hook. I’d like an opportunity for moderate views to be listened to in Canberra. But I am watching closely.”