**Personal Story:**

My heart breaks as I write about the dire situation facing a vulnerable student within the Victorian education system. This child, who should feel secure and nurtured in a place of learning, is instead met with an alarming level of disregard and neglect. Despite numerous disclosures about bullying, stalking, and threats, the very institutions meant to protect them – the school, the South Eastern Regional Victoria Office (SERV), and the Department of Education – have tragically failed this child.

I am raising this urgent appeal to draw public attention to this issue, seeking justice and the necessary action from those in power. It is incomprehensible that repeated cries for help have been ignored, leading to an environment where the student's safety is compromised daily.

**The Problem:**

This failure by the institutions is not just a single oversight. It signifies a systematic breakdown at multiple levels within the educational structure. Schools should be a sanctuary, yet for this student, it has become a place filled with fear and anxiety. Despite numerous attempts to alert authorities, recorded instances of misconduct and harm continue unabated. Specific accounts of bullying and stalking have been dismissed or inadequately addressed, leaving the student in a precarious and dangerous position.

**Evidence:**

Bullying is widespread among Australian students aged 12–13
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW);

 “National data shows that 7 in 10 students aged 12–13 experience bullying‑like behaviours in a single year. The Department knows this age group is at high risk, yet no safety plan was implemented for this child.”

"Bullying is a leading cause of school avoidance and absenteeism. The Department’s failure to act has directly contributed to this child's disengagement and distress.”

Approximately 20% of students report feeling unsafe at school due to bullying or threats, a statistic that should prompt immediate action from educational authorities. Yet, this particular case has been allowed to fester without meaningful intervention. (source AIHW)

**Our Demand:**

We call upon the Victorian Department of Education, SERV, and the associated school to take immediate and comprehensive action. This includes a thorough investigation into the handling of this case, implementation of robust anti-bullying measures, personal safety plans for vulnerable students, and accountability for those who have failed in their duty of care.

**Solution:**

1. Initiate an independent review of the school's and the SERVs actions (or lack thereof) concerning this student.
2. Establish a clear framework within the Department of Education for reporting and addressing instances of harm, ensuring a swift and effective response.
3. Strengthen training for school staff, focusing on recognizing and responding to signs of bullying and threats.
4. Facilitate open lines of communication between students, parents, and educational adjudicators to foster trust and transparent problem-solving.

**Conclusion:**

This situation cannot continue without consequences. Every day that passes with no action is another day a child's well-being is jeopardized. Sign this petition to demand justice, accountability, and the establishment of a safe educational environment for this student and others who may be suffering in silence.

Please sign this petition to urge the Victorian education authorities to rectify these grievous errors and protect our children.