[Greens-Media] VCAT decision re special religious instruction (SRI) very disappointing - Pennicuik

[Amanda.Sharp at parliament.vic.gov.au]

VCAT decision re special religious instruction (SRI) very disappointing

19 October 2012

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hearing involving 
Aitken & Others versus the Department of Education and Early Childhood 
Development (DEECD) yesterday ruled that the parents had not established 
that the state had discriminated against the children who have opted out 
of SRI.

"The VCAT decision is very disappointing," Greens Spokesperson for 
Education and Early Childhood, Sue Pennicuik said today. "Children who do 
not attend SRI lessons held in school hours should not be left feeling 
segregated and different."

"I have been concerned that SRI is largely provided by one particular 
religious denomination, which is contrary to the Act which states that 
'government schools will provide a secular education and will not promote 
any particular religious practice, denomination or sect,' "Ms Pennicuik 
said. "I am also concerned that children who do not attend SRI classes are 
not provided with appropriate alternative activities in all schools and I 
have raised this with the Minister."

"SRI has no place in government schools, which should be secular and 
free," Ms Pennicuik said. "I have a motion in state parliament to amend 
the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 to reflect this. 

"The Government should cease funding for special religious education in 
government schools, other than general (comparative) religious and ethics 
education for all children."

For more information:  Sue Pennicuik  0409 055 875 / 9530 8399

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Parliament of Victoria                                                                                                                    . 
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