The harm wasn’t just what happened to them.

It was the system that let it happen.

Across Australia, children are being hurt in our schools and education systems not just once, and not in isolation, but as part of a disturbing national pattern.

They are:

• Bullied for being different
• Physically assaulted
• Sexually harassed or abused
• Segregated, restrained, suspended
• Ignored when they cry for help
• Blamed when they are harmed

And when families speak up, they are often shut down. Schools deny it. Departments delay it. Complaints go nowhere. The child is left to carry the trauma, while the system moves on.

We are parents, survivors, educators, and advocates. We are speaking up to demand what should have been done long ago: a Royal Commission into abuse in Australian schools and Education settings.

 

Why a Royal Commission?

Because this harm isn’t about one state, one school, or one policy. It is national. And it is systemic.

Only a Royal Commission has the power to:

• Investigate across all education systems — public, private, religious, and specialist
• Subpoena documents and compel testimony
• Centre the voices of survivors and families
• Deliver binding recommendations for reform

The Disability Royal Commission exposed deep failings in education — but stopped short of what’s truly needed.

Now is the time to act.

Who This Is For:

This is for every child who was failed.

For every parent who was dismissed.

For every family who was told to be quiet.

And for every future child who deserves to be safe, supported, and seen.

We Demand:

1. A Royal Commission into abuse in Australian schools and Education settings
2. A national investigation that includes:

• All school systems and states
• All forms of abuse: physical, sexual, psychological, and neglect
• Voices of children, parents, and frontline educators
• A survivor- and disability-informed process

3. Binding national standards for safety, accountability, and justice

Add your voice. Sign now.

Your signature is a step toward justice — not just for our children, but for all children.

Because the harm was the system.

And it’s time we faced it.

 

Organised by Hope in Colour | Founded by a Mother, Fuelled by Justice

Campaign: The Harm Was the System

Website: www.hopeincolour.com.au

Socials: @hopeincolour