From a Safe Schools Coalition Australia (SSCA) spokesperson

Recent online discussion regarding the Safe Schools Coalition Australia (SSCA) program has spread a lot of misinformation, including claims about the content of SSCA resources. These claims have no basis.

SSCA offers approved support services and resources to educators to equip them with knowledge and skills to create safer and more inclusive school environments. All resources have been deemed age-appropriate, educationally sound and have been reviewed by an expert panel of educators for use in secondary schools. They are evidence-based classroom resources written by teachers and curriculum experts. These resources are available here.

Suggested activities in SSCA resources are common teaching tools, designed to build empathy, understanding and tolerance.

SSCA exists because research shows that students at safe, inclusive and supportive schools have better educational outcomes and are less likely to have poor mental health. Data shows that LGBTI young people experience high levels of bullying and abuse, and this has an effect on their educational outcomes. What we know is that if we can work to reduce bullying and abuse, LGBTI young people have a better chance of succeeding at school and have better mental health outcomes.

The national SSCA program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and Training. Participation in SSCA is voluntary for all schools. No schools are forced to join Safe Schools or use any of the resources. Schools looking to become formal members need to have parental bodyconsent. The Safe Schools program in Victoria is funded by the state government and is not part of the national coalition.

For further information on the national SSCA program see the parent fact sheet here.