It has been reported today in The Sydney Morning Herald that school suspensions in NSW have increased by 10 percent in the last 2 years.

This is very bad news and a further sign that our education system is failing those who are most disadvantaged.

Dr Mike Freelander said

“I have previously written to the NSW Education Department about the high level of school suspensions in South West Sydney, in my role as a paediatrician.”

“In spite of what has been published from others, I would like to make it quite clear that school suspensions are damaging and do little to benefit the individual child, and the families involved.”

We must put more resources into our public school system and we must help those most disadvantaged. It is very important that the underlying cause of the school suspension is looked at, and that supports are put in place.

Dr Mike Freelander said

“Often, children who are suspended are those who struggle the most academically.”

“School suspension often leads to learnt behaviour where the child knows he or she only has to act out and suspension will follow.”

“Suspension is often very difficult for struggling families and leads to further disadvantage.”

It is astounding that South West Sydney has suspension rates at least 4 times higher than in other areas such as Northern Sydney. Surely even the reactionary Berejiklian and Turnbull Governments can see the discriminatory nature of this.

Dr Mike Freelander said

“There is no evidence of any benefit to the child or family or society of school suspension. This message has been clear for many years.”

“Yet again, these issues reflect the disdain with which the residents of Macarthur are being treated by Liberal Governments.”

“I will continue to push for adequate infrastructure in education, health and public transport for Macarthur residents.”