The APS opposes this Bill because it undermines a strong education system underpinned by inclusion, recognition of diversity and respect.
This Bill, if passed, could have a potentially significant and harmful impact on children’s mental health, wellbeing and education. In particular, it will impact on the ability of school psychologists, as well as teachers and other school staff, to provide support to already vulnerable children.
The proposed changes may also contravene the rights of young people (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) and evidence-based best practice.
This Bill specifically prevents school psychologists and counsellors from affirming a trans or gender diverse student or providing them with any at-school support or referrals to gender affirming support services (regardless of age and maturity). This Bill therefore undermines and is in direct conflict with both the APS Statement about Mental health practices that affirm transgender people's experiences and the APS Code of Ethics.
School needs to be a safe, impartial location to allow young people to flourish in a context of open discussion and respect for others. Making schools safe and supportive environments, particularly for gender and sexually diverse young people, is critical to promote and maintain their health and wellbeing.
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