McKim appointment welcomed

This media release was issued by the TGLRG on 13.5.11

Tasmanian gay community advocates have welcomed the appointment of Greens Leader, Nick McKim, as state education minister.

Tasmanian Gay and Lesbian Rights Group spokesperson, Rodney Croome, said Mr McKim has a strong record of opposing discrimination and bullying on the grounds of sexuality and gender identity.

"National studies have shown that 11% of Tasmanian school students are same-sex attracted or transgender, and that many of these students are subject to discrimination and abuse at school", Mr Croome said.

"We look forward to working with Mr McKim to ensure Tasmania's schools are safe learning environments for all students."

Tasmania was the first state to adopt education policies against homophobia and transphobia, and the first to fund class-room anti-homophobia programs, but according to Mr Croome the State Government has "dropped the ball" in recent years.

For more information contact Rodney Croome on 0409 010 668.