Dolly’s Dream welcomes the Queensland Government’s recent announcement of a $44 million investment to address school bullying and support student wellbeing, as well as the Federal Government’s commitment to conduct an anti-bullying review to inform a nationally consistent standard to address bullying in schools.
The Queensland funding will allow schools additional resources such as therapists, teacher aides, and specialist training, reinforcing the state’s commitment to creating safer learning environments for all students. Schools play a crucial role in addressing bullying, and this funding provides much-needed resources to support both students and educators in tackling this complex issue.
On a national scale, we are encouraged by the Federal Government’s continued plans to conduct a comprehensive anti-bullying review to inform a nationally consistent standard to address bullying in schools with the appointment of two leading experts, Dr. Charlotte Keating and Dr. Jo Robinson, to travel across the country over the next six months. Their mission is to gather firsthand data and stories from students, educators, and families to inform the development of a comprehensive nationally consistent standard to address bullying in schools.
Dr. Charlotte Keating is a dedicated mental health advocate, Clinical Psychologist with a PhD in neuroscience, and an Advisory Board member for Dolly’s Dream. Her expertise in youth mental health and deep understanding of the impacts of bullying will be invaluable in shaping this important work, ensuring that it is not only evidence-based but also deeply rooted in the lived experiences of young people across Australia including those in regional, rural and remote areas.
“We know that bullying in all its forms has a lasting impact on the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people. This is an opportunity to ensure that we’re listening to those most affected and creating meaningful change,” Dr. Keating said.
Bullying, particularly in school settings and online, remains a devastating reality for many young Australians. The emotional, psychological, and even physical toll it takes on children, families, and communities is profound. This significant investment is a step in the right direction, helping to ensure that schools are better equipped to prevent bullying and support those affected by it.
Dolly’s Dream is committed to changing the culture of bullying by addressing the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide, through education and direct support to young people and families. These government initiatives align with our ongoing efforts to create safer environments for young people and to empower them to speak out.
We commend the government for prioritising this issue and look forward to contributing to the discussions that will shape the future of bullying prevention in Australia. By working together, we can create a nation where no child feels alone and where kindness, respect, and inclusion are at the heart of every school and the wider community.
