For the first time since its inception nearly a decade ago, 100 per cent of Northern Territory Government schools have signed up to take part in this year’s National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence.

The annual day encourages students across Australia to sign up to take part in a nationwide movement to unite and “take a stand together” against bullying and violence in schools, classrooms and online.

The theme of this year’s event is Bullying. No Way. Take Action Every Day.

The day is a largely student-led initiative that complements a number of programs and services in NT schools to tackle the scourge of bullying and its potentially devastating impacts.

Last week, Chief Minister Michael Gunner joined Kate and Tick Everett, the parents of 14-year-old Territory bullying victim Dolly, in launching the Dolly’s Dream eSmart program, designed to tackle cyber-bullying in NT schools.

Last year, the Department of Education also launched the NT Social and Emotional Learning Curriculum, a new learning program that complements traditional curriculum by teaching students to understand and regulate their emotions and to manage and respond to their social environment.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, Selena Uibo.

“Every Territory child deserves to feel welcome and safe at school, in public places and online.

“The Territory Labor Government is tackling bullying and violence in schools by giving students access to a positive and supportive learning environment.

“It is pleasing to see all students in our government schools getting behind this important, student-led initiative and sending the message to their peers that bullying, in any form, is never acceptable.

“I congratulate Territory students and schools on such a powerful display of support of the National Day of Action on Bullying.”

Media contact: Kim Stephens 0417 683 144