There is no place for discrimination or homophobia in any school

No school should have the right to turn away or discriminate against LGBTIQ students or teachers.

According to media reports, a leaked copy of the Ruddock review of religious freedom has recommended changes to the federal Sex Discrimination Act to allow religious schools to codify the way they can discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity or relationship status.

Australian Education Union Acting Federal President Meredith Peace said that the inclusive culture at public schools should be the model for all schools.

“There is no place for discrimination or homophobia in public schools. No matter who you are, no matter what you believe, no matter where you are from - our public schools welcome each and every child who arrives at the front gate. These should be the values to which all schools adhere,” Ms Peace said.

Ms Peace said that schools should be places for all students to feel safe and welcome, so that children can focus on receiving the best possible education.

“There is also no place for discrimination against teachers in the workplace, whether it be schools, TAFE or preschool,” Ms Peace said. “Staff have a right to a safe and healthy workplace.”

“Our public schools are also an expression of one of our most basic human rights - the right of all children to receive a high quality education which values their potential and their individuality,” Ms Peace said.