Petition against Education Bill and changes to home schooling gains momentum
Hinchinbrook MP and KAP Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto at a committee hearing in Brisbane with home-schooled children.
11 April 2024
In just two weeks, a parliamentary petition has gathered more than 17,000 signatures from Queenslanders who are opposed to Labor’s Education (General Provisions) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (the Bill).
The petition, sponsored by Hinchinbrook MP and Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader Nick Dametto, has been welcomed by families right across Queensland, especially those who rely on home schooling due to unique circumstances where mainstream schooling is not a feasible option.
Mr Dametto said the 17,339 signatures on the petition to date was indicative of the widespread impacts the Bill could have on many Queensland families.
“The Bill has alarmed the home education community, and their concerns range from increased regulatory and reporting burdens to potential limitations on educational freedom that allows home educators to customise learning programs to suit their child’s individual needs.
“The fears I am hearing from many parents is that the changes could undermine the flexibility and autonomy that have made home schooling a viable option for them.
“As a member of the parliamentary committee examining the Bill, I have been able to put some hard questions to representatives from the Education Department and I have to say I am far from convinced that this Bill will serve to benefit anyone except the Government.
“The committee will be handing down its report on the 19th of April following which it could be brought on for a second reading debate within the Parliament at any time. At the second reading, I and my KAP colleagues intend to introduce amendments to the Bill that will attempt to preserve what little rights home educating families have.
“I am committed to advocating for the rights and interests of Queensland families right across Queensland, particularly those who have chosen home schooling as the best educational pathway for their children. Parents should be empowered to make the decisions in the best interest of their children and not be dictated to by Governments.”
The petition closes on the 16th of April 2024 and can be found on the following link https://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/Petitions/Petition-Details?id=4048
Mr Dametto said he hoped to see the petition surpass 20,000 signatures.
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